Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITBFS)

Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome (ITBFS) is a common cause of pain on the outer aspect of the knee, particularly among runners, military personnel, and cyclists. This overuse injury is often effectively managed with conservative treatment.

Causes and Risk Factors:
Training Errors: Inadequate warm-up, rapidly increasing training intensity, distance, or frequency
Footwear: Worn-out or improper shoes that lack adequate support can strain the soft tissues supporting the joints
Surface Changes: Switching to different training surfaces
Physical Conditions: Factors such as leg length discrepancies, tight iliotibial bands, weak hip muscles, and excessive foot pronation

Signs and Symptoms:
Localised Pain: Typically felt on the outer side of the knee where the ITB attaches to the shinbone, but it can also be experienced on the outer hip.
Activity-Related Pain: Pain may initially occur only during intense activities, but can progress to persistent pain even during walking
Pain Radiation: Discomfort may radiate from the knee up or down the leg
Swelling/Thickening: There may be noticeable swelling or thickening where the ITB moves over the lower end of the femur

Diagnosis:
Comprehensive history and physical examination
Imaging studies such as X-rays, ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans

Treatment may include:
Rest: Essential to reduce strain on the affected area
Medication: Pain relief with appropriate medications
Physiotherapy: Targeted exercises to improve flexibility, strength, and overall function