iliotibial band syndrome
Also written as: ITBS — iliotibial band syndrome
Overuse injury causing lateral knee pain due to friction of the iliotibial band over the lateral femoral epicondyle.
Full Definition
Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is one of the most common causes of lateral knee pain in distance runners and cyclists. The condition results from repetitive friction of the iliotibial band over the lateral femoral epicondyle during knee flexion and extension. Contributing factors include training errors, biomechanical abnormalities such as excessive internal hip rotation, weak hip abductors, and anatomical variations. The pain typically begins insidiously and worsens with continued activity, particularly during the stance phase of running when the knee is at approximately 30 degrees of flexion. Clinical examination reveals point tenderness over the lateral femoral epicondyle, with pain reproduced during the Ober test or Noble compression test. Treatment emphasizes addressing underlying biomechanical deficits, activity modification, and targeted rehabilitation.
Usage
Usage note: Specify lateral knee pain to distinguish from patellofemoral causes of 'runner's knee.'
In Context
- "The marathon runner developed iliotibial band syndrome after increasing her training intensity." — Sports medicine evaluation
- "Gait analysis revealed excessive hip adduction contributing to her iliotibial band syndrome." — Biomechanical assessment