Knee Sleeves and Braces as Part of an ITBS Rehabilitation Plan

Posted by Jean Arnold on January 12th, 2021

No person wants to learn they are suffering from Iliotibial band syndrome or ITBS. However, this condition affects many individuals, such as those who run long distances regularly. When the iliotibial band becomes inflamed, the person experiences pain. What must be done in this situation?

Sign the IT Band is Inflamed

In addition to stabilizing the knee, the IT band allows the knee joint to bend along with other muscles in the leg. When this tissue becomes irritated or inflamed, moving the knee is painful. People find the pain increases with repetitive movements and eases off when the knee is rested. A person might find they experience treating knee pain in the outer portion of the knee and this area might swell. As the person bends their knee, they may feel a pop or snap.

What Causes ITBS?

Up to 14 percent of endurance athletes suffer from ITBS at some time. When a person increases their intensity level rapidly, they become more at risk of this injury. Men and women need to increase their endurance over a period of time rather than doing so all at once to avoid this and other injuries.

The inflammation appears at the outside of the knee joint, as this is where muscle and bone cross. A bursa sits between the muscle and bone to help the band glide smoothly. When the band becomes inflamed, it no longer glides as it should, and this inflammation occurs as a result of repetitive bending of the knee.

Many things contribute to ITBS, such as a failure to warm up properly before exercising and excessive training. If the IT band is tight, movement exacerbates the problem and can lead to ITBS. Interval training and weak knee and hip abductor muscles also contribute to this condition.

Treating ITBS

Immediately upon noticing inflammation in the IT band, individuals need to allow the knee to rest. Applying ice helps to keep swelling down as do anti-inflammatory drugs. Ask your doctor if knee sleeves and braces will be of help during this stage of recovery, as many people find they need the extra support.

Once the symptoms are under control, the person needs to turn their focus to boasting the strength and flexibility of both their knee and hip. The IT band cannot function properly if one or both joints are weak. When these joints begin functioning normally once again, the focus turns to placing weight-bearing stress on these joints. Again, supports and sleeves may be of help at this time.

In the event these treatment protocols don't produce the desired results, the doctor may recommend a cortisone injection. However, this should be a last resort. In very rare cases, the person must undergo surgery to lengthen the IT band and reduce friction in the area.

If you are suffering from ITBS, purchase Hg80 knee braces. They are of great help during the recovery process. In addition, they can be used to reduce the risk of future injuries, ensuring the person gets their money's worth from this purchase.