The functional anatomy of the iliotibial band during flexion and extension of the knee: implications for understanding iliotibial band syndrome

Abstract

Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome is a common overuse injury in runners/cyclists. It is generally considered that the cause of the condition is repetitive friction; however, the findings from the anatomical, histological and magnetic resonance imaging techniques of this study showed that ITB syndrome may instead be attributed to fat compression beneath the ITB. The paper alters our understanding of this injury and suggests a new method for treatment. The novel study demonstrates the anatomy and histological basis of this athletic problem. Fairclough assisted in writing the protocol, designed the treatment and statistics and contributed to the manuscript writing.