Sports & Performance
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Pain on the outside of the knee, typically in runners and cyclists.
Also called: IT band syndrome, ITBS.
IT band pain usually relates to load and hip control rather than to the band itself simply being tight in isolation, though it is often described that way.
It typically presents as a sharp or aching pain on the outside of the knee that appears at a fairly predictable point during activity.
Why this matters
It often appears at a consistent point in a run or ride, which is a useful clue about load tolerance and helps guide what needs to change.
Addressing hip control and training factors tends to be more productive than focusing solely on stretching or releasing the band itself.
The brain & nervous-system connection
Where the nervous system fits in
Pelvic control during single-leg stance — the phase of running or cycling when one leg bears the load — is central to this pattern, so gait and balance are assessed as part of the evaluation.
Coordination between the hip stabilizers and the rest of the leg determines how well load is managed through a full stride, which is why the evaluation extends beyond the knee itself.
What we look at
We look for patterns, not a single test
- Detailed health history and consultation
- NeuroInfiniti Stress Response Evaluation
- Posture and movement
- Balance and coordination testing
- Eye movement or neurological screening when appropriate
- Grip or motor-function testing when appropriate
- Palpation and spinal function
- Other examination procedures based on the individual
Not every person receives every test. What we perform depends on your history, your age and what the examination shows as we go.
Scope of care
What this does — and doesn't — mean
What we do
- • We evaluate chiropractic and musculoskeletal function.
- • We look at nervous-system-related functional findings that fall within our scope.
- • We assess movement, balance and coordination findings.
- • We measure stress-response patterns with the NeuroInfiniti evaluation.
- • We make individualized chiropractic care recommendations and re-measure over time.
What we don't claim
- • We do not diagnose, treat or cure diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer's disease or other neurological diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical care, testing or medication.
- • No outcome is promised. Results vary from person to person.
Common questions
- Will I be adjusted on the first visit?
- Generally no. The first visit is an evaluation visit. Dr. Geran reviews the findings and makes recommendations at the follow-up visit.
- Do I need imaging before I come in?
- Not usually. If your history or examination suggests imaging is needed, we will say so and help arrange the right next step.
When medical evaluation may be needed
Some symptoms need medical evaluation first. If anything in your history or examination suggests that, we will say so and help point you in the right direction.
Related at Foothills Chiropractic
- Joint Pain & Staying Active — Shoulders, hips, knees, ankles — extremity function matters as much as the spine.
- Achilles Tendinopathy — Pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon, usually load-related.
- Ankle Pain — Pain or restriction at the ankle, often after an old injury.
- Ankle Sprain — Ligament injury from rolling or twisting the ankle.
Think Foothills Chiropractic might be right for you?
Start Here walks you through what the process looks like, so you can decide whether taking the next step makes sense for you.