How Do You Treat Iliotibial Band Syndrome?
Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is a repetitive-motion disorder of the knee that results in painful bursitis. Most ITBS sufferers are athletes in training who don’t wait long enough to get back to the game after an injury. Because ITBS may have several causes, treatment may be immediate and concentrated or gradual and cumulative. Support the knee. Use reusable flexible bandages or a molded, cushioned knee brace with a Velcro closure, which you can purchase from your local drugstore. Prop the leg up on pillows while you are sitting, to relieve the bursa. Take any anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers recommended by your doctor. Using medication steadily over a period gives the inflammation time to decrease and disappear. Ice your knee when it is painful or after any excessive physical activity. Use ice packs for about 20 minutes at a stretch, and then take a break. Restrict exertion for 4 to 6 weeks, or according to your doctor’s instructions. Don’t do any activity, such as running,
