Iliotibial band syndrome: evaluation and management

• Published in: Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons Vol. 19; no. 12; p. 728
• Main Authors: Strauss, Eric J, Kim, Suezie, Calcei, Jacob G, Park, Daniel
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States 01.12.2011
• Subjects: Algorithms; Fascia Lata - pathology; Humans; Iliotibial Band Syndrome - diagnosis; Iliotibial Band Syndrome - etiology; Iliotibial Band Syndrome - surgery; Iliotibial Band Syndrome - therapy; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Physical Therapy Modalities; Risk Factors
• ISSN: 1067-151X
• DOI: 10.5435/00124635-201112000-00003

Iliotibial band syndrome is a common overuse injury typically seen in runners, cyclists, and military recruits. Affected patients report lateral knee pain associated with repetitive motion activities. The diagnosis is usually made based on a characteristic history and physical examination, with imaging studies reserved for cases of recalcitrant disease to rule out other pathologic entities. Several etiologies have been proposed for iliotibial band syndrome, including friction of the iliotibial band against the lateral femoral epicondyle, compression of the fat and connective tissue deep to the iliotibial band, and chronic inflammation of the iliotibial band bursa. The mainstay of treatment is nonsurgical; however, in persistent or chronic cases, surgical management is indicated.