This is where the IT Band is located
The iliotibial band is a tendon that connects the knee to the hip. It runs along the outer thigh to your knee. If this band becomes inflamed and painful, it is called the Iliotibial Band (IT Band) Syndrome. When the IT band becomes tight or strained, it rubs the outside of the knee and causes discomfort. The tendon is supposed to help stabilize the knee, and if it can't, it will then cause a knee injury. Sometimes this situation is referred to as "runner's knee" but people who don't run experience it, too.
What causes this to happen? Overuse or excessive weight bearing exercise, ill-fitting exercise shoes that don't support your legs, running on uneven ground, exercising vigorously after a long hiatus, a change of gait, leg length differences, flat feet, and muscle imbalances are some of the causes of IT Band Syndrome.
Read on to learn spot this condition.
Instructions
1. Notice pain around the outer side of the knee. Sometimes, people panic and think there might be a possible tear on the meniscus or knee cap. Or you might think you have strained a muscle. Consult with your physician to confirm the IT band syndrome diagnosis. Preferably, go to an orthopedic doctor.
2. Experience difficulty using your knee when walking up or down the stairs. Often it hurts more to step down than to go up.
3. Examine your knee for swelling. There will be some along the side of the knee. A vein might become more prominent than it was before, or a group of little veins anywhere on the leg might become swollen.
4. Spot that your walk has become a limp. It will feel like something is dragging your leg along. There will be pain behind your knee cap and pressure all along the side of your leg up to your hip.
5. Notice that you are more tired than you would be normally. The pain on the side of your leg will span from the top of your hip to your knee and will make you fatigued. You will be working more to perform daily routine activities and you will want to rest more. In fact, you will want to just lie down.
