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We take the time needed for a thorough examination to find the underlying cause of your pain.
Airrosti Providers use hands-on manual therapy to treat your specific IT Band injury to reduce pain, increase mobility, and accelerate healing.
No surgery, injections, or prescription medication.
Patients have shorter recovery time with an average of 3.2 visits over 2 weeks.
Speed your recovery and keep your pain from returning.
Lakin also discusses common treatment options for this injury and how Airrosti’s approach differs. At Airrosti, we pinpoint the root of pain to treat it directly at the source. Read more about our injury resolution results here.
Still have questions or concerns about your IT Band pain? Schedule a no-cost video chat with one of our Providers.
The iliotibial band (IT band) is a band of fibrous connective tissue on the lateral aspect of the knee, running down the outside of the thigh. This band interacts with the quadriceps, hamstrings, gluteal muscles, and hip flexors. Its primary function is to provide stability to the outer knee and hip during movement. It may overdevelop, tighten, and rub across the hip bone or the outer side of the knee. This condition is particularly common in those who participate in running, cycling, or other aerobic activities.
The IT band acts primarily as a stabilizer during running or other strenuous activity and may become irritated from overuse. The pain is typically felt on the outside of the knee or lower thigh, but it may also be felt near the hip. It is often more intense when descending stairs, or getting up from a seated position. Pain can be severe enough to completely sideline a runner for weeks or even longer.
IT Band Syndrome (or ITB Syndrome) — also known as iliotibial band friction syndrome — can result from any activity that causes the leg to turn inward repeatedly. This can include wearing worn-out shoes, running downhill or on banked surfaces, running too many track workouts in the same direction, or simply running long distances.
Unlike many overuse injuries, however, this condition afflicts seasoned runners almost as much as beginners. Muscle tightness or lack of flexibility in the buttock or thigh muscles may increase the risk of injury. ITBS is more common in women, possibly because some women’s hips tilt in a way that causes their knees to turn in.
Because the most notable symptom is typically swelling and pain on the outside of the knee, many runners mistakenly think they have a knee injury. The best way to tell if you have an IT band problem is to bend your knee at a 45-degree angle. If you do, you’ll feel pain on the outside of the knee.
As mentioned above, the main symptom is pain on the outer side of your knee, just above the knee joint. Early on, the pain might go away after you warm up. Over time though, you may notice it gets worse as you exercise.
• Aching, burning, or tenderness on the outside of your knee
• Tenderness that is frequently worse when in a standing position and when the knee is flexed to 30 degrees
• Feeling a click, pop, or snap on the outside of your knee
• Pain up and down your leg
• Warmth and redness on the outside of your knee
Surgery is rarely necessary for IT band syndrome. Most cases respond well to conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, Airrosti care, stretching, and proper footwear adjustments. Surgery may only be considered in severe, chronic cases where conservative methods have failed and the condition is causing ongoing pain or dysfunction. A healthcare provider will assess the severity of the condition and recommend the appropriate treatment.
Yes, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with IT band syndrome. In more persistent cases, your doctor might recommend stronger anti-inflammatory medications or even corticosteroid injections. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting any medication, especially if you have other medical conditions.
Yes, self-care techniques and exercises are highly effective for managing IT band syndrome. Stretching the iliotibial band, foam rolling, and strengthening exercises for the hips and glutes can reduce tension and support healing. Exercises such as hip abductor strengthening, clamshells, and side leg raises can be helpful. Resting from activities that worsen the pain (like running or cycling) and using ice to reduce inflammation are also beneficial. Airrosti can provide a tailored program for recovery.
Yes, it is important to limit activities that aggravate the IT band, such as running, cycling, or repetitive bending of the knee, especially in the early stages of recovery. Rest and modifying activity levels are key to reducing inflammation and allowing the IT band to heal. Low-impact activities like swimming or walking on flat surfaces can help maintain fitness while avoiding further irritation. Gradually reintroducing activity under the guidance of a healthcare provider is important to prevent recurrence.
After completing my 900-mile challenge in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and starting my "reverse map," I developed knee pain from an IT band issue. Through telemedicine, Dr. Pavlich worked with me on stretches and strength-building exercises that I could complete at home. He quickly responded to my messages when I had questions about my technique or the exercises. Within seven weeks, I completed a 2-day, 40-mile hike up and over the Appalachians that included more than ten whitewater crossings. I know my leg will never be perfect, but it's been great to reduce my knee pain and to have a program I can complete without traveling. Thanks so much!
by Karen Tobias
I came to Airrosti for help with my hip/IT band pain, a running injury that reoccurred almost ten years after my initial injury. Dr. St. Dizier was very knowledgeable, and kind and was able to significantly reduce my pain within just a few short visits.
by Christina Moreno
First off I don’t do many reviews, in fact this may be my second review all time. After completing my first iron man triathlon I developed a serious case of IT band syndrome. After months of rest, traditional physical therapy, and steroid shots I was still unable to run or bike. The orthopedic surgeon recommended me to Dr. Robert Garza at Airrosti in Downtown Houston. Within 4 visits, and dedication to my treatment plan I was able to run my first 5k in months with no pain. Within 6 treatments I was discharged and ready to start training for the next triathlon. I continue the exercises and stretches I was taught by Airrosti and I couldn’t be happier. If you have pain please give this a try. I was worried I would have to have surgery a...+ show morend miss a full season. I couldn’t recommend Dr. Garza any more. Seriously a game changer!!!! Thanks for helping me!!!!
by Samuel Miller
I was walking one day and felt my left knee go out of its regular alignment. I listened to a live informational Airrosti training about the IT band and learned it could be related to my knee injury. The entire registration process was extremely simple. I spoke with my doctor, he sent me a recovery kit and exercise videos for me to complete. We then met about once a week to see how I was progressing, and I was also able to message any concerns or victories in my progress throughout the recovery process. This was an important part of the recovery phase in my opinion since the exercises were unfamiliar to me, and I wanted to be sure any pain I felt was normal. Sometimes the pain was not normal, and my doctor gave me specific modifications t...+ show moreo ensure my progress continued. All in all, this was an extremely effective protocol, easy to complete on my own schedule. I highly recommend Airrosti!
by Anna Coffee
Many thanks to Dr. Friendt for the successful treatments, but even more for educating me on how to identify root causes and better treat myself. I've been able to self-correct issues with my IT bands and hip flexors on an ongoing basis thanks to him and the physical therapy exercises prescribed. I wish I'd gone to him sooner!
by Julie Wood
I called on Airrosti for some help with my IT band. 2020 brought us all new challenges and a lot of difficult change. Like many others, I ended up working at home which meant a lot more time sitting, standing with poor posture, etc. I started having some pain in my hip and legs and knew I needed some help. Thankfully, Dr. Christy Hicks came to my rescue! During my first online appointment, Dr. Hicks seamlessly diagnosed the issue I was having. The first stretch she taught me brought intense relief within the day. Thanks to Airrosti's smart video system, Dr. Hicks was able to actually see what physical symptoms I was displaying. And thanks to Dr. Hicks' incredible knowledge and uncanny way of teaching, I caught the scoop on the physical m...+ show moreechanics of my body -- plus how to make needed corrections. Within days, and despite a major weather disaster, I had received my care kit in the mail. Dr. Hicks sent videos for how to use the tools in the kit using the app (and via email), so I could get started on alleviating my symptoms right away. Dr. Hicks' communication with me was top-notch: she checked in on my progress and kept me focused on the future -- and feeling better. I have already recommended Airrosti to others and specifically recommended Dr. Hicks by name. She was an incredible resource to me. Dr. Hicks has an incredible ability to bring her technical, medical knowledge and transform it into digestible, understandable tidbits for laypeople like me. Coupling that with her clear interest in her patient's success -- not to mention her good-natured humor and ability to meet me where I was at -- I had an incredible experience with Airrosti. I've continued the work she helped me start to stay pain-free, and I know I have ongoing access to Airrosti's useful app. I'm good to go, many thanks to Dr. Hicks at Airrosti!
by Kathleen Decker
Dr. McCutchen fixed my long-standing IT band issues that prevented me from enjoying long runs. With her pleasant disposition and her vast knowledge of all things in pain, she had me back on the trails in no time! Thank you!!!
by Kelly Morgott
I cannot say enough great things about the miracle work that Dr. Bill Kempe does out of his practice. A few years back, I came in with major IT band issues three weeks before I was supposed to run a marathon. He did some great treatment and gave me the exercise to do and taped me up. I ran the marathon and hadn't been back. A couple of years ago, I came in with some back issues and again same great treatment and prescribed mobility therapy and all fixed up again. This morning I came in and had shoulder mobility issues. He diagnosed in 5 minutes, found the exact spot to work, and gave the exercises. He truly is amazing - it may seem like the cost is too much but the experience, the treatment, and how he prescribes long term health is pric...+ show moreeless. Hoping he can soon reverse the aging process for me too. Thanks, Dr. Kempe!
by Charlie Romero
My daughter Kat came in for Airrosti because of pain in her knee. The pain was such that Kat was sidelined with her ballet career. A visit to her medical doctor resulted in the usual, “do nothing for a week, then go slow & come back if your knee is still bothering you.” Sounds like great advice unless you are training to become a professional ballerina, have a performance in 2 weeks, and are supposed to leave for an out-of-state training opportunity in 4 weeks, but can only go if you can perform at 100%. Dr. Jenay took the time to get to know Kat and how her knee pain was impacting her life. Dr. Jenay identified the problem within the first visit...Kat’s patella (knee cap) wasn’t tracking properly, due to a tight IT Band & a weak...+ show more muscle. Being a dancer, Kat is extremely flexible so Dr. Jenay had to consider what was a normal range of motion for Kat when assessing her current situation. By the end of the first visit, with proper manipulation, Kat’s range of motion was improved. She followed up with exercises for homework and 2 more visits over a 3 week span. 4 weeks after Kat’s first visit to Dr. Jenay, Kat is training at Milwaukee Ballet for the summer, pain free & with no limitations. Kat continues to do her exercises prescribed by Dr.Jenay. Dr. Jenay continued to follow up on Kat’s progress even after discharging her. She really took the time to listen & get to know Kat and her world of ballet. Without wonderfully trained Airrosti docs like Dr. Jenay Zelaya, Kat would not be living her dream today.
by Karen Umlang
I was referred to Dr. Brinkley by a cycling friend. I originally thought I had a knee injury because of specific pain that would arise while riding my road bike. It was easy to set up an appointment. Upon my first visit Dr. Brinkley discussed my activities and realized that I had a tight IT band attributed to several groups of leg muscles being knotted up due to my lack of proper stretching before and after such activities. Through his therapy in the office as well as advice on proper exercises to do at home I was back to my active self after 4 visits. I really liked that after each office visit I received an email that contained links to those proper stretches and strengthening exercises that were provided that day. I continue to use th...+ show moreose therapy exercises and remain pain-free and without issues on my road bike as well as when running or swimming. Thanks, Dr. Brinkley!
by Stefan Brooks
One of my hobbies is ballroom dancing and as with any athletic activity the risk of injuries intensifies (due to various reason - not to mention not knowing what you're doing 🙂 ). In one of lessons I severely pulled (possibly with a minor tear) my gluteus medius/IT band. Since I couldn't put weight on my leg I thought this would take me out of the dancing world for at least 4-6 weeks. Since I knew Dr. Seibert from a prior injury visit I contacted her immediately and upon examination she felt that I'd be back to normal activities within 2-3 visits. Didn't quite believe that but alas after three treatments (and diligent foam rolling and exercises of course!) I am back to my normal dance schedule! Thank you so much Dr. Seibert and Meghan!!...+ show more!
by Maike Height
My son, Chase, 15, has been to Dr. Siragusa at Airrosti on several occasions. He is an athlete, and has required work on his IT band, fascia, back, and most recently his wrist and shoulder. Chase suffered a dislocation in his hand, requiring a cast by another doctor, and resulting in a weak wrist, making it painful and impossible to throw his 12 lb. shot put. After 3 treatments & visits, and the daily exercises for mobility, he performed in his first varsity track meet painfree, taking home the gold medal. We have the utmost appreciation for and confidence in Dr. Siragusa's & Jerod's approach to rehabilitating, and will continue to utilize and recommend Airrosti for improved performance and the most effective treatment.
by Venée Harrell
My daughter had a really bad IT band and a pulled quad issue from basketball and Dr. Wheeler fixed her right up in a few visits. I was impressed! She was almost 100% ready to get back on the basketball court after 4 visits but we did a few more to completely address the issue. Thank you so much for all you have done Dr. Wheeler! Everyone really appreciated your work and honesty with Meghan. She is at 98% after a few weeks which is much better than what some were telling us she might need to heal.
by Jeff Egberg
During my marathon training, I ended up hurting my IT band about 6 weeks prior to race day. I could barely lift and bend my left leg. A friend told me about Airrosti. I called, and I was in for my first appointment the next day. Couldn't have been happier with the quick turn around. Things only got better from there. I was blown away with the Airrosti approach to treatment and how they focus on healing you so you can get back to training quickly. What's more, Dr. Kempe explained in simple terms what he was going to do for treatment and why. It was not short of miraculous. I had three appointments in three weeks. Each appointment was split between treatment and then flexibility/strengthening exercises. At the end of my treatment, not only...+ show more was I cured, but I'm now more flexible and stronger. It was an incredible experience - not only with the quick results but in the strategic approach to treatment. I got a PR in my marathon last week. Couldn't have done it without Dr. Kempe and Airrosti. Thank you!!!
by Dave D.
We offer both in-clinic and telehealth appointments to best suit your needs.
Reviewed by Casey Crisp, Doctor of Chiropractic
Disclaimer: Always consult with your doctor before starting any exercise program. If you experience any numbness, tingling or reproduction of your symptoms, please contact your doctor.
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“Airrosti” is the registered tradename used for Airrosti Rehab Centers, LLC and its various subsidiary and affiliated entities, which provide musculoskeletal treatment services. Airrosti providers are doctors of chiropractic or doctors of physical therapy.
