In this post, we will discuss what is iliotibial (IT) band syndrome, how to prevent it, and how to manage it when running.
Running is a great form of exercise that can provide numerous physical and mental benefits.
However, it can also cause injuries, such as IT band syndrome. IT band syndrome can be painful and impact your ability to run.
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IT Band Syndrome from Running
The iliotibial band is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh from the hip to the knee. As a result, IT band syndrome can cause pain on the outside of the hip, thigh, or knee.
IT band syndrome is a common overuse injury that occurs when the IT band becomes stiff and inflamed.
Activities that require repetitive bending/straightening of the hip/knee joints can cause IT band syndrome, such as running and cycling.
How to Prevent IT Band Syndrome from Running
The best way to prevent IT band syndrome is to take steps to reduce your risk of developing it in the first place. Here are some tips:
1. Gradually increase your mileage and intensity.
2. Perform an active warm-up before running.
3. Perform a cool-down, including passive stretching, after running to prevent post-exercise stiffness or lactic acid build-up.
4. Wear proper running shoes that provide adequate support and cushioning.
5. Make sure that you have proper running form, such as landing on the middle part of your foot.
6.Cross-train with other activities, such as weight-lifting, swimming, or yoga, to strengthen or improve the range of motion of your muscles while preventing overuse injuries.
How to Manage IT Band Syndrome from Running
If you experience symptoms of IT band syndrome, it’s important to take steps to manage the condition to prevent it from worsening. Here are some tips:
1. Rest and reduce your mileage or intensity.
2. Ice the affected area to reduce inflammation.
3. Visit a physical therapist who can assess your condition and provide exercises to help stretch and strengthen your lower extremities muscles to decrease the stress on the IT band.
Take Care of your Body
Running and other physical activities can be great for your health, but it’s also important to take care of your body and prevent injuries.
By following these tips for prevention and management, you can stay active, and pain-free.
When to See a Health Professional
It is important to see a healthcare provider if you experience severe or persistent pain, swelling, or difficulty walking.
Therefore, your provider can assess your condition and recommend additional treatments if necessary.
Physical Therapy at More 4 Life
If you are experiencing symptoms of IT band syndrome, the experienced physical therapists at More 4 Life can help.
Our team of experts will assess your condition and provide personalized treatment plans to help you recover as quickly as possible.
At More 4 Life, we can help you gradually increase your mileage and intensity, teach you proper warm-up activities, learn about proper footwear, improve your running form, and give you exercises that address the muscle imbalances that caused the IT band syndrome.
As a result, we are dedicated to helping you recover from your injury and get back to activities that you enjoy.
Contact us at 314-941-3970 to schedule an appointment and take the first step to living your life to the fullest.