IT Band Syndrome
You run or ride fine for a while, then a sharp ache flares on the outside of your knee or hip at almost the same point every time. Only backing off makes it stop.
What it is
The IT band is rarely the real problem. It's a long, tough band that carries tension from the muscles above it. The tensor fasciae latae (TFL) and gluteal muscles that anchor into it are usually what's overworked. So it's often a hip and thigh problem that you feel at the knee.
What makes it worse
It often builds with running (especially downhill) and cycling, and tends to show up after a sudden jump in mileage or training intensity. Worn-out shoes and always loading in the same direction often add to it.
How PNMT helps
Your therapist starts with your pain history, then checks your hip range of motion, watches how you move, and tests the TFL, gluteus medius, and vastus lateralis to find which muscles are creating the tension. Treatment is precise work on those muscles, guided by your feedback until the familiar pain is reproduced. If testing points to the knee joint itself, your therapist will tell you and refer you to the right care.
What to expect & how long
Your movement and the hip and thigh tests are rechecked each visit, so you can see what's changing. Because this is a load problem, the goal is getting you back to running or riding. That usually takes a few sessions, spaced according to how the activity feels as you build back up.
What clients say
I met Sarah last year in September and I have used neuromuscular therapists before and she is amazing. She dedicates herself on keeping up with latest education. When you go there with a pain she will make sure she listens to your needs and try to ensure you are pain free by the time you leave your appt. depending on how severe it could take a few sessions but she won't stop until she figures out the source of the problem! I am a dentist and come to therapy about 1x month. I have elbow and shoulder pain as well as IT band issues. If I come in with pain I leave feeling almost 100 % if not better. She is a wonderful person and makes sure to give her clients at home care instructions. I'm so happy to have found her!
Sarah is amazing! She is both kind and great at helping to resolve chronic pain. My TMJ has improved so much with her care.
I've been going to soma vida for around 4-5 years. I think at this point for neuromuscular therapy. My coworker recommended it for my back pain. I mostly make appts with Yu, but I think I've had appts with everyone there atleast once. The treatment can be painful but I always come out feeling so light and so much better than before. I've had chronic neck pain from my desk job and other pain in areas that is only fixed by whatever they do here. They truly care about you and want to make sure you leave feeling better.
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Get help for IT Band Syndrome
Book a New Client Session. Your therapists will find the source of your pain and build a treatment plan for you.
75-minute first visit. Two therapists assess and one treats. Every follow-up is one-on-one with your therapist.
The whole Somavida team stands behind your treatment plan.