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Location
Pain is present
on the outside of the knee cap. The Illiotibial band is a band
of strong tissue that begins on the outer side of the pelvis
and attaches to the outer part of the knee. Excessive strain
can lead to the tendon shorting which causes the band to rub
on the knee cap and produces pain.
How
it affects your running
This is a classic
overuse injury. Excessive mileage, hill work and inadequate
rest are contributing factors. Hyper-mobility of the feet (over
pronation) can also lead to this condition.
Treatment
of Illiotibial Band Syndrome
Initial treatment
should consist of an ice pack. Some runners prefer to use a
wet towel that has been in the fridge. We recommend you use
commercially available ice packs for focused pain relief. Anti-inflammatory
such as Ibrobrufen will help to release the swelling. Please
note this should be taken with meals and never before running.
Reduce mileage
and hill work followed by a course of deep massage is advisable.
The main two exercises that can help this condition are leg
extensions to strengthen the hips and a gentle Illiotibial band
stretch.
Illiotibial Band
Stretch
Sit with your injured
leg bent and crossed over your straightened opposite leg. Twist
at your waist away from your injured leg, and slowly pull your
injured leg across your chest. You should feel the stretch along
the side of your hip. Hold the stretch for 10 to 15 seconds.
Repeat the stretch six to eight times. This stretching exercise
may be helpful for Illiotibial band syndrome and adductor strain.

We also recommend the use of sports orthotics/ insoles to dramatically
speed up recovery time. Knee supports provide compression and
stability to the affected muscle to increase the healing phase
of the injury.
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