What is IT band syndrome?

• A. A medial knee pain condition due to a meniscal tear
• B. An ankle sprain causing lateral instability
• C. A patellar tendinopathy causing anterior knee pain
• D. A painful condition of the lateral knee, typically an overuse type injury with pain located near the insertion site

Answer: (D)

IT band syndrome is an overuse injury of the iliotibial band that causes pain on the outer side of the knee. The IT band runs along the outside of the thigh and can become irritated as it rubs over the lateral knee structures during repetitive knee bending, which is common with running or cycling. The pain is typically felt near where the band inserts on the tibia just below the knee, and many people notice a snapping sensation as the band moves over the knee in flexion and extension. Contributing factors include sudden increases in activity, downhill running, tight tensor fascia latae, weak hip abductors, and biomechanical issues that increase IT band tension. Management centers on rest and a targeted rehab program to stretch and strengthen the hip and thigh muscles, correct mechanics, and adjust training loads. This pattern—lateral knee pain from repetitive use with tenderness near the IT band insertion—best captures IT band syndrome.