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Leading-Edge Care for Chronic Knee Pain

Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial Band Syndrome, referred to as ITBS, is caused by inflammation of the iliotibial band, a portion of muscle that travels from the hip to the knee along the outer side of the thigh. ITBS results in pain that most often presents itself on the outer side of the knee and may be aggravated by activity.

If you’re struggling with knee pain as a result of ITBS, The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists can help you find the leg pain relief you deserve. Our team of expert physicians is passionate about using the latest techniques and technologies to offer minimally-invasive solutions, and we will work with you to create a customized treatment plan that’s specific to your individual needs.

If you're ready to get started on your journey to leg pain relief, contact us today to schedule a consultation. We look forward to helping you achieve your goals of living your life without pain!

Knee & Leg Pain Treatment in Stockbridge, GA

Treatment & Diagnosis of Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Iliotibial band syndrome is most often diagnosed based on a review of your symptoms and a physical examination. In some cases, additional testing may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other possible causes of your knee pain. The most common symptoms of ITBS include:

  • Pain on the outer side of the knee
  • Stiffness or tenderness in the affected area
  • Swelling around the knee joint

There are a number of different ways to treat ITBS, and the best approach will depend on the severity of your condition. Often, conservative treatments can be effective in managing pain and inflammation, such as:

  • Physical examination: A physical examination will be conducted in order to look for signs of compression in the thoracic outlet.
  • Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as x-rays, MRIs, or CT scans, can be used to look for anatomical abnormalities that may be causing the compression.
  • Nerve conduction studies: Nerve conduction studies can be used to measure the electrical activity of the nerves in the thoracic outlet.
  • Blood flow studies: Blood flow studies can be used to measure the blood flow in the thoracic outlet.

The treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome will vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. In general, however, the most common treatments include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Massage therapy
  • Ice and heat therapy
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises
  • Orthotics or shoe inserts
  • Corticosteroid injections

If conservative treatments don’t provide the relief you need, our team may recommend surgery to release the iliotibial band. This is typically a last resort option, but it can be an effective way to provide long-term relief from ITBS.

At The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists, we are committed to helping our patients find the leg pain relief they need to live their best life. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What typically causes iliotibial band syndrome?

Iliotibial band syndrome is typically caused by overuse, such as from running or cycling. It can also be caused by injury or acute trauma to the area. There are a few things you can do to help prevent ITBS, such as:

  • Wearing proper shoes that provide adequate support
  • Stretching and warming up before exercising
  • Cross-training to avoid overuse of the same muscle group
  • Increasing mileage gradually to avoid overloading the muscles
  • Pregnancy: The added weight of pregnancy can compress the nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet.

Why is it important to treat ITBS early?

Iliotibial band syndrome is a condition that can be effectively treated with conservative measures, such as physical therapy. However, if the condition is left untreated, it can lead to long-term effects, such as:

  • Chronic knee pain
  • Joint instability
  • Muscle weakness
  • Decreased range of motion

If you’re struggling with iliotibial band syndrome, The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists can help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.

Do you accept insurance for iliotibial band syndrome treatment?

Yes! The Physicians believe that cutting-edge care for chronic pain should be accessible to everyone who needs it, and we’re proud to accept insurance from providers across the Atlanta area.

Visit our Insurance page to see our list of accepted providers.

How can I get started with the best knee doctor near me?

If you’re ready to find relief from symptoms of iliotibial band syndrome, The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists are here to consult with you, answer your questions, and get you started on the road to relief. Schedule your appointment today using our easy online tool.