Many people, particularly those with physically active lifestyles, have suffered the pains and soreness of a repetitive overuse injury called IT Band Syndrome. Commonly encountered in Sports Medicine, it is the second most common type of knee injury and the bane of runners.
What Is ITBS?
Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is a condition caused by friction. Specifically, the friction of the Iliotibial band tendon as it rubs against the bones of your knee or your hip causing painful inflammation. The Iliotibial band is the tendon that runs along the exterior of your leg from the top of your hip to your knee, along the exterior side of the leg.
If you experience any of the following symptoms, you might be suffering from ITBS.
- Pain in the area between the outer knee and upper hip.
- Painful and restricted range of motion.
- Grinding or clicking in the knee.
- Pain in the above areas that gets worse with increased activity.
Will IT Band Syndrome Go Away?
The good news is that it is not permanent. If treated properly, which can include a variety of therapies, including chiropractic care in combination with physical rest, the symptoms can be alleviated. This is usually a process that takes several months, depending on which therapies are appropriate.
What Are the Stages of IT Band Syndrome?
ITBS can be mild, moderate, or acute, based on the intensity and duration of the symptoms. For example, visible redness and swelling are indicative of acute cases.
How Do You Treat ITBS?
ITBS treatment plans can include a diversity of options, depending upon the stage of the problem. Typical treatments can include:
- Anti-inflammatories
- Analgesics
- Chiropractic care
- Corticosteroids
- Physical therapy
- Stopping exercise and allowing the knee to rest
- Surgical treatment in extremely severe cases
While treatment and rest can bring about complete recovery, if ITBS becomes a chronic issue, many of these treatments are reduced in efficacy.
Can a Chiropractor Help with IT Band Syndrome?
Yes, a chiropractor can be very helpful in treating ITBS. The combination of holistic treatments and rehabilitative exercises that a chiropractor provides can reduce pain while strengthening the muscles surrounding the IT band area. Many of these methods are geared toward reducing inflammation of the IT band. Other forms of manual therapy focus on ensuring or restoring alignment to the hip, thigh, and knee areas.
By combining chiropractic techniques and rehabilitative exercises, this reduction in pain and improvement in mobility can be sustained. So, if you’re planning on running the New York City Marathon this year, this is a common ITBS is a common injury to worry about. To prepare, we recommend regular treatments to help avoid injuries from marathon running.
Chiropractic Care for ITBS in Medford, NY
If you need care for ITBS or other issues, our team is ready to get you on the road to healing. Here at Total Chiropractic Care, we understand that each case is unique, so each requires a tailor-made treatment plan for your injury. Dr. Goldman will get you on the road to healing and recovery. Schedule an appointment online or call us directly at (631) 447-2299.