Iliotibial Band Syndrome

I've been running for a long time, and I didn't have any IT Band issues until I severely increased my mileage and ran it on a slight slant no less.  After that run, I had severe IT Band/outer knee pain for a few days, and it subsided.  I was able to return to running without any issues.  Recently, however, I've had to stop running because of a pulled muscle, so I've been biking as cross training.  A couple of days ago, my IT Band began to flare up again, and I'm having trouble with it again.  It wasn't as bad as before, and I've gone back to resting, and it seems to be subsiding.  But could I be developing a chronic problem?  Advice?

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

The iliotibial band begins at the hip and extends to the outer side of the shin bone (tibia) just below the knee joint.

Whenever you suddenly increase your level of activity such as while running and also when you increase your mileage in running; you can develop iliotibial band syndrome.

Ice the area, wear proper foot wear, proper stretching, physical therapy, steroid injections and intermittent use of NSAIDs should be tried.

Take care!