The runner's knee is one of the most common types of overwork injuries commonly found in runners. It occurs when the iliotibial band (iliotibial tract), which is a fascial structure of fibrous tissue present along the lateral part of the thigh, becomes inflamed. The iliotibial band starts at the level of the pelvis, stretches to the outer area of the knee joint and works in accordance with a few muscles of the thigh to provide stability to the outer part of the knee.

When the Iliotibial band does not work properly, running can become painful and it is necessary to interrupt it. Pain is usually present on the side of the knee, but sometimes it can also irradiate in its anterior part.

The runner's knee is also known as iliotibial band syndrome.

The runner's knee is one of the main causes of lateral knee pain, for runners. The iliotibial band is the thick band of tissue that extends from the outer part of the pelvis, over the hip and knee and is inserted just below the knees.

This band has an important role in stabilizing the knee during the run.

During the repeated flexion-extension movements of the knee, the iliotibial band is repeatedly rubbed against the lower end of the thigh bone (femur). This friction causes inflammation and pain.

The iliotibial band has attachments in a muscle called the wide fascia tensor, which contributes to the contraction of the iliotibial band.

The wide fascia tensor has its attachments in the pelvis, but it also has a connection with the large buttock muscle, which can lead, in some people, to pain in the side of the knee when there is a contracture in the large buttock muscle.

The runner's knee is an overstrain injury that tends to worsen due to repetitive movements. Certain situations increase the risk of inflammation of the iliotibial band, namely:

✓ running for long distances or for a long period of time
✓ running on slippery, uneven or very hard terrain
✓ worn running shoes
✓ running with the tips of the feet inwards

There are also physiological situations that expose the risk of developing the disease, namely: poorly developed hip or knee muscles, small differences in the length of the lower limbs.

Once the pain is present, the best thing is rest, which accelerates the recovery process. Running will be interrupted for a period of time and eventually another sport will be practiced that does not overload the knees, such as swimming or rowing. Climbing stairs will also be avoided.

Ice applied topically, in sessions of 5-10 minutes, 3-5 times a day, significantly helps to reduce inflammation and pain. Always put a thin towel between the ice and the area on which it is applied so as not to irritate the skin.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ibuprofen, diclofenac etc.) help relieve inflammation and implicitly reduce pain. But they are recommended for short periods of time, 7-14 days maximum.

If the pain does not improve significantly within a few weeks, local cortisone injections may help reduce inflammation and pain.

Manual therapy and stretching exercises help reduce tension in the iliotibial band. Toning the hip muscles and stabilizing the muscles of the knees in order to correct the muscle imbalances will be a priority. Electrotherapy can also be used to accelerate healing.

✓ Reduce the number of kilometers you run or take a break for a few days, whenever pain occurs along the outer part of the knee.

✓ Make sure the shoes are in good condition.

✓ Avoid running on hard surfaces after restoring the knee.

✓ Do not skip warm-up before running.

✓ If a difference in the length of the lower limbs is found, insist on its correction by making personalized plantar supporters