Physical therapist assisting with Iliotibial band syndrome

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS or IT band syndrome) is an overuse injury of the tissue that runs outside of the leg, from the pelvis to the knee. It causes pain and tenderness, especially above the knee. Other common symptoms include a stinging sensation, thickening of tissue, or a snapping sensation on the outside of the knee. 

Physical therapy for IT band syndrome can help ease pain and correct biomechanical issues that may be exacerbating symptoms.

female physical therapist helping her male patient stretch his knees
male physical therapist showing female patient how to use resistance bands

IT band syndrome accounts for 22% of overuse injuries in the knee region, but there are many ways to treat it. Your IT band syndrome treatment may include:

  • Ice and behavior modification to treat initial pain
  • Modalities for pain and tissue healing
  • Flexibility exercises
  • Biomechanical correction of training errors and abnormalities
  • Soft tissue mobilization
  • Manual therapy
  • Strengthening of hip and core musculature
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