Continuing from our last blog post, Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome, is a common injury that may keep fitness enthusiasts away from activity for weeks or even months. ITB Syndrome is usually caused by training errors or overuse by excessive training, which I have also had the misfortune of suffering with.
I increased my training not realising that my running shoes were worn out. Unfortunately I suffered with both pain and discomfort on the outside of my thigh and knee. ITB Syndrome has caused me great deal of frustration.
One training session with biomechanical errors can cause ITB Syndrome. Overuse injuries of the ITB are just as common. Unlike many overuse injuries, however, IT band pain afflicts seasoned runners almost as much as beginners. When the iliotibial band comes near the knee, it becomes narrow, and rubbing can occur between the band and the bone.
The body is broken down faster than it can heal itself. Just minimising your training may not allow your body to recover in order to allow full healing to take place.
These are some training factors and biomechanics that play a role in the development of ITB Syndrome:
- Poor technique
- Weak muscles surrounding the hip and knee joints
- Weak core muscles
- Sudden changes in surface (i.e., soft to hard, flat to uneven or decline)
- Large changes in speed or mileage
- Poor foot arch control
- Worn out or incorrect training equipment (shoe, bike etc.)
- Excessive hill training
- Endurance training
- Previous injuries
Recognising any one of these and seeking assistance will save you a lot of pain, frustration and wasted training efforts! If you think you may be in danger of ITB Syndrome please contact me, or my husband, Geron, as soon as possible so that we can get you back to your peek fitness level.
Comments
Post a Comment