The Knee joint is one of the most important and strongest joints of the locomotor system of the human body. The pressure experienced by the knee joint is approximately three times the body’s weight when walking and about five times the body’s weight when running. In short, a person who weighs 80 kg puts about 400kg of pressure on the knee when landing each running stride. The immense pressure experienced by the knee, especially in runners, makes the knee more prone to injury. Iliotibial or IT band syndrome, also called runner’s knee, is a common knee injury, especially in runners. It is the second most common knee injury in runners after the jumper’s knee.
What is Iliotibial or IT band syndrome or runner’s knee?
The Iliotibial band, or IT band, is longitudinal fibrous support of the Fascia Lata. It is originating from the upper outer part of the hip and runs along the outside and lastly attaches to the top of the shinbone (tibia). When the knee bends, the IT band glides over the outside of the knee joint, including the bulbous end of the femur called the lateral condyle. If the IT band becomes tight either from strain or overuse, it can rub against the lateral condyle, causing inflammation and pain. Typically, there is sharp pain usually felt on the outer part of the knee joint.
IT band syndrome pain is usually most noticeable when the knee is bent at about 30 degrees. The outer part of the thigh feels tight, and hip and knee may be less flexible. Cyclists typically feel pain when the knee is bent at 30 degrees during the downward pedal stroke and again during the upward pedal stroke.
What is the conventional treatment for runner’s knee?
Non-surgical Regenerative treatments are usually successful in treating IT band syndrome. The Iliotibial band plays a vital role in stabilizing the knee. In the inward rotation, it also helps the hips in abduction. Conventional treatment for IT band syndrome, which is mainly palliative, includes:
Reduction in pain and inflammation
The initial treatment for the Iliotibial band syndrome include reduction of pain and inflammation using either of the following methods:
- rest,
- change of footwear,
- massage,
- proper warm-ups,
- stretching,
- NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs,
- Change running biomechanics,
- Ultrasound and electrical muscle stimulation or Iontophoresis.
Your writing style makes the topic easy to understand.
ReplyDeleteStem cell therapy is an advanced wellness and regenerative approach that focuses on supporting the body’s natural repair processes. It is being explored for various health and wellness applications and may be considered as part of a personalized care plan. Professional consultation is important to understand the available options, suitability, and potential benefits of stem cell therapy. You can get more details on our website anytime: stem cell therapy in Malaysia