How Chiropractic Helps Overcome Iliotibial Band Syndrome
If you are someone who runs on a regular basis, you understand that you are going to develop aches and pains from time to time. On the other hand, you probably understand the difference between general soreness and a serious injury. One of the most common injuries that runners develop is called iliotibial band syndrome. Usually shortened to IT band syndrome, this is commonly diagnosed when people have overtrained the pelvis and related muscles. This can make the muscles tight and cause them to get in the way of motion, causing chronic discomfort. Fortunately, there are treatment techniques that chiropractors can use to help patients avoid prescription medications and surgical procedures. What is IT band syndrome, and how can a chiropractor help with this condition? Keep reading to find out.
What Is IT Band Syndrome?
The IT band is a thin layer of tissue that is on the outside of the muscles of the left and right leg. It extends from the top of the thigh to the outside of the knee. If this band of tissue gets thick, this leads to IT band syndrome. When you flex or stand up, the IT band tightens. This helps you keep your legs straight, allowing the thigh muscles to relax. If IT band syndrome develops, this can impact the muscles of the buttocks and tensor fascia lata. As a result, this condition can also be called tensor fascia lata syndrome. The two terms are often used interchangeably.
What Are the Symptoms of IT Band Syndrome?
If you have developed this condition, there are a variety of symptoms that might appear. Similar to other conditions, symptoms can vary widely in severity and scope. Some of the most common symptoms of IT band syndrome include:
- Pain that gets worse after running, particularly after climbing stairs, running hills, or running up an incline
- Discomfort that fades when not running to a higher elevation
- Pain that feels like a throbbing or stabbing on the outside of the thigh, hip, or knee
- Pain that restricts the range of motion
In a lot of cases, this condition develops when someone is guilty of overtraining. Even though it is important to stay in shape, you also need to listen to your body and take a rest day from time to time. Otherwise, you could develop this condition.
How Can a Chiropractor Help with IT Band Syndrome Treatment?
There are a lot of treatment options that a chiropractor can use to address this condition. A few common treatment options include:
- Dry needling and acupuncture can provide pain relief
- Stretching and physical therapy can increase the range of motion and flexibility of the IT band itself
- Active Release techniques are commonly incorporated in the treatment plan
- There might be specific adjustments that a chiropractor can perform to loosen the thigh muscles in the leg, removing pressure from the hip and knee
Every treatment plan is going to be customized to meet the individual needs of the patient. This will put you in the best position possible to make a full recovery.
Rely on a Chiropractor To Treat IT Band Syndrome
There are a variety of injuries that runners commonly sustain. Even though IT band syndrome can be frustrating, there are multiple treatment options available. Runners do not necessarily have to use prescription medications or surgical procedures. If you think you are suffering from IT band syndrome, you should seek expert care as quickly as possible. A chiropractor can help you recover completely, not only treating the symptoms on the surface but preventing them from coming back in the future. So if this describes you, please give us a call. We’re here to help!