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The muscles and other tissues of our body can withstand amazing feats of trials and tribulations. When done carefully, we can continuously push our bodies to reach new physical limits. However, that doesn't mean we are indestructible. There are times when we overuse specific tissues, which leads to problems such as iliotibial band syndrome (or ITB syndrome). When you're faced with this issue, don't hesitate to reach out to our team here at Virtual PT NYC. Through the use of physical therapy, you'll be able to bring your body back to full strength.

What Is ITB Syndrome?

As previously stated, ITB syndrome is a type of overuse injury. The IT band is a thick band of fibrous tissue that runs from the outside of your hip, through the inside of your thigh and knee, to your shin bone. When this issue becomes overused and irritated, it can lead to problems in and around the knee. In most cases, you won't have knee surgery if you receive proper treatment, which is why you should contact our team right away if you are suffering from this problem.

What Can Lead To ITB Syndrome?

Due to the nature of the IT band, various activities can lead to ITB syndrome development. Knowing what these are can help you better prepare for avoiding this issue. Although many stimulants can lead to overuse injuries in general, the most common activities that can cause ITB syndrome include:

• Running.
• Hiking.
• Cycling.
• Walking long distances.

Risk Factors To Be Aware Of

In addition to being active, there are also physical risk factors that increase the chances of dealing with ITB syndrome. Fortunately, our team is well versed in this injury and understands what these risk factors involve. By informing you now, we hope you will make any necessary adjustments needed to help keep yourself injury-free. The most common risk factors include:

• Bowed legs.
• Knee arthritis.
• Constantly rotating your ankle inward when running or walking.
• Weakness in certain muscle groups, such as your abs, glutes, and hips.
• One leg is longer than the other.

When To Seek Treatment

Sometimes, the human body experiences minor pain and discomfort that subsides on its own. Unfortunately, ITB syndrome is not one of these occurrences. Recognizing this issue's symptoms will allow you to receive the treatment needed to help get back to full strength. If you find yourself dealing with any of the below, we will help:

• Aching, burning, or tenderness around your knee.
• Experiencing a clicking, popping, or grabbing sensation in your knee when moving.
• Radiating pain up and down your leg.
• Warmth and redness around your knee.  

How Our Team Will Help

At Virtual PT NYC, our primary objective is to get patients back to full strength. Through our sessions of virtual physical therapy, you'll find your ITB symptoms will be relieved, so you can get back to performing your favorite activities without issue. Below are just some of the ways our team will help with treatment:

• Teach you how to perform stretches and strengthening exercises that promote healing within the IT band and surrounding tissues.
• Assist in choosing footwear and orthotics that better support your knee.
• Helping you understand the proper mechanics of the activities you perform.
• Provide tips on how to perform warm-ups and cool-downs.  

Schedule An Appointment

When you're dealing with ITB syndrome, moving around can be difficult. That is what makes our services so beneficial to our patients. Virtual appointments can be just as effective as in-person ones and allow you to heal without ever needing to leave your home. If you'd like more information on ITB syndrome or need to schedule your first appointment, contact our team at Virtual PT NYC today.