Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)
Iliotibial Band Syndrome is probably the most common type of running knee injury that runners complain about and we see at the San Diego Running Institute. The runner usually states that they are getting “stabbing” pain in the side of their knee that prevents them from running. They will also say that the pain begins after a specific amount of mileage and disappears after they stop running. Often these runners followed advice from coaches and friends that did not work out. Icing after running and taking anti-inflammatory medication like Ibuprofen are the most common. Sometimes they tried a knee brace but it was the wrong kind. For example; many runners say they tried a knee brace and when we ask to see it they shoe us a knee brace that was intended for patella tendonitis or chondromalacia. There are simple “quick-fixes” available at the San Diego Running Institute for Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) in addition to the runner resting and stretching. The foam roller is one running injury tool that appears to work very well for Iliotibial Band Syndrome. We will typically take a runner through the proper foam roller routine so that they get the most effective results when using it to massage their iliotibial band. Many runners also respond well to the Pro-Tech Iliotibial Band compression brace. When worn correctly this brace can have an immediate pain relieving effect on the iliotibial band while running. Compression is a key component of the sports injury acronym RICE. RICE stand for Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. While running it is not practical to rest, ice or elevate but you can compress using the Iliotibial band compression brace. We have found the Pro-Tech brand to be superior to other compression brace brands. Some runners develop ITBS due to foot overpronation. At the San Diego Running Institute we have found SUPERFEET to be an effective over the counter sport orthotic that can help prevent overpronation and reduce torque at the knee. This in turn alleviates the pain associated with Iliotibial band Syndrome.
When these “quick fixes’ fail the San Diego Running Institute can refer you to Dr. Victor J. Runco. He is a marathon runner and running injury specialist. When the simple fixes for Iliotibial band Syndrome (ITBS) are not effective he can recommend therapy, IT-Band taping and sometimes custom foot orthotics or better shoes for the orthotics you already have. If you have knee pain or have already been diagnosed with Iliotibial band Syndrome stop by the San Diego Running Institute and let one of our running experts show you some of the easy fixes that have helped thousands of runners with this foot condition. If you prefer to make an appointment with Dr. Runco call 619-265-2222.
