For many with outer knee pain, they suspect the cause is ITB syndrome. This annoying pulling/burning pain is situated around the outer aspect of the knee both above and below. The pain is often noted when walking down stairs and sitting with the knees bent. There may or may not have been a specific precipitating incident for the pain. For many the pain seems to just appear without cause. There likely is one, but not necessarily easily identified.

Frequently when people experience this issue they will resort to pain meds, icing, and foam rolling the outer leg. While this may take the edge off the pain, it often is not enough to SOLVE the problem. The issue tends to linger when not properly treated.

Properly treated?

Yes, finding and then addressing the specific cause is necessary. Proper diagnosis and treatment can and will result in resolution of the issue. Failure to do so will result in lingering symptoms.

Who can diagnose and treat this ITB syndrome?

A physical therapist should be your go to provider in this instance. A thorough muscle and joint exam will highlight the reason(s) the issue developed. In many cases, weakness of the outer hip and/or foot/ankle issues can be the precipitating cause for ITB syndrome. This probably does not sound right, BUT it is. The hip and foot/ankle serve to control motion at the knee…or in the case here, abnormal movement of surrounding joints can result in pain of the knee.

The increased motion above or below the knee results in changes in subtle motion around the knee. Over time, strain on the tissues (the ITB in this case) develops which results in pain. Thus, it is necessary to strengthen the hip and/or foot/ankle.  There are additional treatment options available to supplement the treatment plan including ultrasound, dry needling, and orthotics. A good exam will provide the best treatment path possible.

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