Iliotibial band syndrome

Question 1

what is the iliotibial band?

Answer 1

longitudinal fibres that run down the lateral leg from the iliac tubercle to the anterolateral tubercle of the tibia. these fibres are the shared aponeurosis of tensor fascia latae and gluteus maximus.

Question 2

what is iliotibial band syndrome and how is it caused?

Answer 2

inflammation of the iliotibial band

typically occurs in athletes and may be associated with repetitive flexion and extension of the knee

Question 3

what are the risk factors for iliotibial syndrome?

Answer 3

regular exercise involving flexion and extension of the knee e.g. runners, cyclists
anatomical - genu varum, excessive internal tibial torsion, hip abductor weakness

Question 4

what are the clinical features associated with iliotibial syndrome?

Answer 4

lateral knee pain
pain exacerbated by exercise
*nobles test
*renne test

Question 5

what investigations are conducted?

Answer 5

typically a clinical diagnosis therefore no imaging

imaging may be used to exclude other conditions of Hx not conclusive

Question 6

what are the management options for iliotibial band syndrome?

Answer 6

most common- conservative:

• modify activity with analgesia during acute pain
• local steroid injections and physio in long term

surgical management:
indicated if it remains symptomatic or functionally limited after 6/12
release of iliotibial band from patella attachments –> allows for greater range of movement