If you’re struggling with persistent knee pain, particularly on the outer side of your knee, you may be dealing with Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS). It is one of the most common causes of lateral knee pain, especially in runners and active individuals. However, traditional treatment approaches such as stretching the ITB band may not be the most effective solution.
What Causes Iliiotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) ?
Contrary to popular belief, ITBS is not caused by friction of the iliotibial band (ITB) over the knee structures but rather compression of sensitive tissues underneath it. This means that:
- The ITB cannot be stretched, making stretching exercises ineffective.
- The root cause often lies in hip weakness and poor movement control.
- Training errors, such as sudden increases in running distance or intensity, contribute significantly to ITBS.
Effective ITBS Treatment Through Physiotherapy
At our physiotherapy clinics in Tullamarine and Carlton we take a targeted approach to ITBS treatment, focusing on:
1. Symptom Management
- Reducing pain and inflammation through manual therapy and load management.
- Identifying and modifying problematic training factors.
2. Strengthening the Hip and Knee
Since weakness in the hip musculature (especially abductors and external rotators) is a key factor in ITBS, we design progressive rehab programs tailored to your needs:
- Level 1: Low-load exercises (e.g., side-lying leg raises, glute bridges).
- Level 2: Moderate-load exercises (e.g., lunges, step-ups).
- Level 3: High-load and sport-specific exercises (e.g., single-leg squats, plyometrics).
3. Gait Retraining & Injury Prevention
- Assessing and addressing running mechanics to avoid excessive hip adduction or a narrow stride width.
- Educating on proper training progressions to prevent recurrence.
- Addressing psychosocial factors, including fear of re-injury and training beliefs.
At our clinics in Tullamarine, Carlton, and Melbourne, our expert physiotherapists provide evidence-based rehabilitation programs for Iliotibial Band syndrome (ITBS) recovery and prevention. Whether you’re an athlete or a weekend warrior, our personalised approach will help you get back to running pain-free.
Don’t let knee pain slow you down! Book your physiotherapy consultation today and take the first step toward recovery.
Visit us at:
Tullamarine Clinic: 1/191 Melrose Drive, Tullamarine, 3043
Carlton Clinic: 2/221 Drummond Street, Carlton, 3053
Call Now to Book:
Tullamarine: 9116 8691
Carlton: 9116 8693
Or Book Online at thephysiocrew.com.au.
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