Ashburn chiropractor Dr. Keegan has been helping people of all ages optimize their health so they can participate in the activities they love. A common injury affecting runners and other athletes is a condition known as Iliotibial band syndrome or ITBS.

What is Iliotibial Band Syndrome?

To say Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is an “overuse” injury is only part of the picture; after all, many marathon runners can log dozens of miles per week and never develop it. The reason why some people get Iliotibial band syndrome depends on several factors including training, recovery, body mechanics, running surfaces, shoe type, and even postural alignment. It’s more common in women who tend to have wider hips, which can “force” the knees to turn in.

This syndrome occurs when the long band of tissue called the Iliotibial band (running down the outer side of your thigh from your hip to your knee) becomes irritated and inflamed. This generally happens due to abnormal friction and rubbing between the band and a bone near your knee joint.

How to Tell If You’re Suffering from Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Signs and symptoms of Iliotibial band syndrome include pain, tenderness, warmth, redness, and/or swelling on the outside of the knee. The outer side of your thigh may also be tender and extremely firm to the touch. Any activity that requires weight-bearing or bending at the knee can be painful, and the joint may pop or click when you move around.

How Chiropractic Care Can Manage, Relieve & Prevent ITBS

Our chiropractic services in Ashburn are drug-free, completely non-invasive, and complementary to your body’s own innate healing ability. Dr. Keegan has used a variety of techniques to help people struggling with ITBS, including:

  • Chiropractic adjustments – maximize the alignment of your spine, pelvis, and hips to decrease strain on your knee and IT band
  • Massage therapy – relieve tension in connective tissues, reduce scar tissue formation, and decrease inflammation by increasing localized circulation
  • Cold laser therapy – low energy light imparts a biological healing effect through “biomodulation” which promotes increased cellular metabolism, anti-inflammation, and pain relief
  • Custom Orthotics with GaitScan Orthotics – optimize the alignment of your feet to promote better mechanics “upstream” at your ankles, knees, and hips

Are Your Runs Currently Affected by Pain? Reclaim Your Health & Strength Naturally with Our Chiropractor in Ashburn, VA

Don’t let a nagging injury keep you from participating in the exercise and sports you love. Contact Keegan Chiropractic today to schedule an initial consultation with our chiropractor in Ashburn, VA, who’s also serving Brambleton, Leesburg, Sterling, and surrounding areas. Call us now at  703-858-3500.