A STRAIN MODEL OF THE ILIOTIBIAL BAND

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate mechanical strain in the iliotibial band as a possible causative factor in the development of iliotibial band syndrome. This syndrome is the leading cause of lateral knee pain in runners. In this syndrome, it is thought that pain develops from friction of the iliotibial band sliding over the lateral femoral epicondyle. The onset of the syndrome may be exacerbated by increasing strain of the iliotibial band. From a large prospective study, female runners who incurred iliotibial band syndrome during the study were compared to a control group who were injury free. Strain, strain rate and impingement were determined from a SIMM model of the lower extremity. The results indicated that iliotibial band syndrome subjects exhibited greater strain throughout the support period but particularly at touchdown and at midsupport. However, there were no differences in strain rate or impingement between the groups.