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Runners knee/ ITB syndrome |
‘Runners knee’ is inflammation of the lower end of the ITB (iliotibial band) as it crosses over the side of the femur at the knee joint. Repetitive friction causes irritation and subsequent pain as the knee bends and straightens. Symptoms are felt at end of range extension and normally arise after exercise has commenced and then will die down after the movement has ceased. It is often felt with running but can even be felt with walking and using the stairs.
Runners knee is a biomechanical problem related to control and positioning of the leg in motion. Treatment therefore requires an assessment and corrective exercise treatment of the pelvis, hips and feet to ensure optimum stability of the leg. As the ITB is incredibly strong and thick, massage alone will not ease the problem, and can actually exaccerbate the issue if performed too forcefully.
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