Lateral knee pain after running has been described as illiotibial band friction syndrome. According to the text "Illustrated Orthopedic Physical Assessment," illiotibial band friction syndrome is caused by overuse and can be the result of friction of the illiotibial band over the lateral epicondyle of the femur. This friction causes an inflamed bursa that refers pain to the lateral knee. According to "Quick Reference Clinical Chiropractic Handbook Conditions Manual," illiotibial band friction syndrome is also called TFL tendonitis and ITB syndrome.
Anatomy
The illiotibial band is located on the lateral portion of the thigh and is a continuation of the tensor fascia lata muscle on the lateral hip. The TFL, as it is commonly called, can become tight and cause pressure and irritation where the illiotibial band attaches at the knee complex.
Causes of Illiotibial Band Friction Syndrome
In addition to a tight TFL muscle, hyperpronation in the foot and repetitive activity that places the knee in 30 to 40 degrees of knee flexion may cause the syndrome, according to "Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor." The text also mentions that research has shown that running at faster speeds is not as likely to cause the pain as downhill running or jogging.
Symptoms
The symptoms of this condition include pain after downhill running or jogging and tenderness over the lateral condyle of the femur. A tight TFL muscle will have tenderness on the lateral hip just above the greater trochanter of the femur.
Treatment
When experiencing pain, the runner may alter his running activities to allow the acute pain to subside. Stretching the illiotibial band and massaging the tight TFL will help relieve the pressure placed on the lateral knee. For any swelling or inflammation at the knee, ice would be used to decrease the symptoms.
Expert Insight
If stretching and the alteration of running activity does not solve the problem, seek help from a professional. Additional stretching and strengthening may be needed as well as an evaluation of foot biomechanics.
References
- "Illustrated Orthopedic Physical Assessment Second Edition"; Evans RC; 2001
- "Quick Reference Clinical Chiropractic Handbook Conditions Manual"; Vizniak NA, Carnes MA; 2004
- "Anatomy and Human Movement Structure and Function"; Palastanga N, Field D, Soames R: 2006
- "Differential Diagnosis and Management for the Chiropractor Protocols and Algorithms Third Edition"; Souza TA; 2005
