Iliotibial Band Reduction

You should exhaust all non-surgical options first. If rest and stretching are not effective, talk to your OS about getting a knee immobilizer. Try the immobilizer w/crutches for a couple weeks. This is about the only way to completely rest the IT band. After the immobilization, a carefully designed and supervised rehab program should then be implemented. The early stages of rehab should focus on reducing inflammation and regaining ROM that may have been lost. Modalities and massage should be utilized along with aggressive stretching. In the later stages, proper biomechanics should be emphasized at all gaits. General strengthening of the hip and knee should start. Also orthotics should be considered to correct any faulty biomechanics that may be occurring from the ankle/foot. Running should be resumed in a controlled environment. You must remember not to push through pain or discomfort, but rather listen to your body. I have had some success treating athletes in this way.

I developed what is diagnosed at ITBS about 15 months ago. After 3 months or so of rest/stretching I was able to start running again and for 3 months had only mild aching after running 5-6 miles. However for the last 8 months or so I haven't run more than 3 miles, and then only with moderate pain. I've just seen a sports medicine dr. who gave me cortisone shot and said keep stretching. I gave up running and then after one week gave up alternative exercises of pool running and biking. Also began strength training twice/week along with icing, but upon running today sharp pain was back and it feels worse than before the shot. I've seen some advice that surgery may be the way to go at this point. Any thoughts from people who may have had surgery?

I am 25 yrs old and was diagnosed with ITB syndrome only two months ago. I am very active in hiking and cycling. I saw a sergeon about the pain I was having. He gave me a corisone shot in hopes that it would releave the pain long enough for me to see a physical theropist. I've spent the last month in physical theropy hoping to strengthen my knee. As of now the cortisone shot is beginning to wear off. My dr. seems to think that sugery is an option. I would be very interested in hearing from someone who has had this surgery already. I'd like to know how long the recovery is and if the surgery is actually worth it!!