Iliotibial Band Syndrome (outer knee pain)
Also known as: iliotibial band syndrome, ITB syndrome, outer knee pain running
Iliotibial band syndrome is sharp outer-knee pain, classically in runners — from overuse and training errors. Physiotherapy and load management resolve most. Chinese medicine treats cold-damp channel blockage, blood stasis and underlying deficiency patterns alongside.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Reduce running load; build hip and glute strength.
- •Check shoes and running surface.
- •Return gradually — most settle in weeks with the right plan.
- •Physiotherapy guidance speeds recovery.
When to reassess or seek care again
Review at 4 weeks: pain with running, strength progress. Adjust the loading plan.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- NHS · 2024
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
- National Library of Medicine · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.