What is the cause of iliotibial band syndrome?
The pain is caused by a tight or hyperactive Tensor Fascia Lata, a muscle which attach to the Iliotibial band, which runs down the outer thigh from the hip to the knee. Repetitive rubbing against the bone on the outside of the knee during running makes the area inflamed. If the main hip abductors are weak, mainly the gluteus medius, then the Tensor Fascia Lata must contract harder and over a period of time straining the ITB. Predispositions to Iliotibial Band Syndrome include: • pronation of the foot • pelvic and spinal dysfunction • a tight and/or weak gluteus medius, quadriceps and hamstrings • tight or hyperactive adductors (inside of thigh) • being bow legged • running regularly on an oval track Chiropractic treatment of iliotibial band syndrome The most important aspect of treating iliotibial band syndrome is a full evaluation of the pelvic joints (sacroiliac joints) and lumbar spine function. Any dysfunction here can contribute to weakness of the gluteal muscles due to neurologic
