Strange Knee Pain After Running? It May Be Iliotibial Band Syndrome
If you feel an odd pain on the outer side of your knee after a run, the most likely cause is iliotibial band syndrome, one of the most common causes of outer knee pain in runners and other athletes. Dr. Amr Elyamany explains what it is and how it is treated.
What is it?
The iliotibial (IT) band is a thick band of tissue running down the outer thigh to the knee. With repeated running or cycling it can become irritated where it passes over the outer part of the knee, producing pain on that side.
The treatment in three parts
- Cut back on running, rather than stopping activity entirely, when the pain is new.
- Calm the pain with ice on the outer side of the knee and, if needed, a simple painkiller under medical supervision.
- Strengthen the muscles above and around the knee, especially the gluteus medius (the side hip muscle), which is responsible for reducing this kind of pain.
Why strengthening is the key
Rest and ice ease the symptoms, but weak hip muscles are what allow the problem to come back. A regular strengthening routine is what makes the improvement last.
Key takeaway: Outer-knee pain in a runner is usually treatable without surgery: modify your running, ice it and build your hip strength.
When to see a doctor
- Pain on the outer knee that does not settle after a couple of weeks
- Knee swelling, locking or giving way
- Pain that is present at rest or wakes you at night
Need advice about your own case? Book a consultation with Dr. Amr Elyamany in Dubai.
This article is for general education and does not replace an in-person medical examination. If you have symptoms, please consult a qualified doctor.