Iliotibial syndrome (ITBS)

Iliotibial syndrome (ITBS) is the leading cause of lateral knee pain amongst runners, accounting for 5-14% of running related injuries. Despite its prevalence, the etiology of the condition remains somewhat elusive. Intrinsic factors including flexibility, strength and running mechanics are commonly implicated as fundamental causes of ITBS – however, these variables have not been evaluated in this population. 

The current study investigated differences in hip strength, ITB length and hip and knee mechanics whilst running in thirty-four males (17 controls, 17 ITBS). The investigators determined that participants with ITBS had a significantly lower Ober’s measurement, weaker hip external rotators, and greater hip internal rotation and knee adduction range-of-motion. 

Whilst these findings may offer some useful insight into the pathomechanics of ITBS, caution must be used when inferring to clinical practice due the cross-sectional study design. Future studies adopting a prospective design would likely offer more rigorous evidence to differentiate between variables that are cause or effect