The iliotibial band is a dense strip of fascia (connective tissues) that originates around the lateral aspect of the hip by the fascia of different muscles (gluteus maximus, medius and tensor fascia latae), runs vertically along the thigh, and inserts in the anterolateral aspect of the tibia (in the Gerdy’s tubercle). Because of its anatomy, this band of connective tissue is free to perform anterior-posterior movements/shifts during knee motion, particularly in flexion and extension. Iliotibial Band Syndrome, often referred to as Iliotibial Band Friction Syndrome or runner’s knee, is one of the most common overuse injuries that affects the knee. The aetiology of this syndrome is multifactorial and likely related to the combination of several factors such as a repetitive knee flexion and extension (e.g.: when running) coupled with a compression/impingement and inflammation of the structures located in the lateral aspect of the knee (e.g.: lateral fat pad and iliotibial bursa). Due to its nature, this condition is primarily reported in the active population over than sedentary individuals, especially in sports that require repetitive knee flexion and extension motion (e.g.: running, cycling, etc.) and often associated with changes in training strategies and volumes (e.g.: increased running intensities and distances). Patients typically complain of sharp/burning pain during running that, if left untreated, typically becomes more present throughout the activity of daily living and not limited to physical activity alone.
