Overuse Knee Syndromes in Sports

Iliotibial Band (ITB) Tendonitis

The iliotibial (IT) band is a thick strip of tissue which starts at the tensor fascia latae muscle, extends down the lateral aspect of the thigh and inserts on the lateral femoral condyle. With repeated flexion and extension activities involving the knee (such as running), the IT band may become inflamed. This typically presents as lateral knee pain, above the joint line, and usually only with bent knee (flexion) activities. This syndrome is most common in runners with hyperpronation or who run on highly crowned roads or with worn out running shoes. Treatment of this condition includes: correction of the running errors or hyperpronation, stretching of the IT band, icing of the affected area (for 10-15 minutes), anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen) and occasionally steroid injection.

Jumper’s Knee (Patellar Tendonitis)

Patellar tendonitis is an inflammation of the patellar tendon at its attachment on the lower pole of the knee cap. This is an overuse syndrome seen most commonly in jumping athletes, especially basketball and volleyball players. This condition presents with pain at the patellar tendon attachment site, and is typically made worse by landing from a jump. Treatment includes avoidance of jumping, stretching exercises, icing, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy (for treatment with modalities such as iontophoresis), and bracing or taping. Steroid injections should be avoided because of possible patellar tendon rupture. This condition can be very difficult to treat, and may become chronic.

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