What Causes Iliotibial Band Syndrome?

Iliotibial band syndrome is a very common injury brought about by overusing the connective tissue situated along the knee and outer thigh. If individuals develop this type of injury, they'll likely begin to experience a lingering pain around the outer portion of their knee, which will be at its worst when they're running or exercising in any capacity. The iliotibial band tissues are essential for stabilizing the knee joint whenever it extends and flexes. Overuse of this joint can cause the tissues to become irritated and inflamed, which leads to the iliotibial band syndrome. Thankfully, iliotibial band syndrome can be treated, though the only way to get rid of an overuse injury such as this for good is to use the affected joint as little as possible until the pain and other symptoms begin to subside. The main symptoms iliotibial band syndrome patients will experience include pain along the lateral portion of the affected knee, swelling and redness around the knee, a popping or snapping sound, and severe pain when they climb steps.