[2] Risk factors in women include increased hip adduction and knee internal rotation.

[6] It has also been suggested that symptoms are caused by impingement of the iliotibial band in the knee during 30 degree flexion, which is a position common in running and cycling.

[12] Other conditions that may present with knee pain similar to ITBS that must be differentiated include a lateral meniscus tear, degenerative joint disease, tendinopathy of the biceps femoris, stress fracture, patellofemoral pain syndrome, and injury to the lateral collateral ligament.

[6] There are several physical exam maneuvers used to test iliotibial band function and provoke symptoms diagnostic of ITBS.

A positive test occurs with inability to adduct the leg due to iliotibial band shortening.

However, in severe or persistent cases MRI may be used to confirm the diagnosis as well as rule out other causes of lateral knee pain.

Corticosteroid injections have been shown to decrease running pains significantly 7 days after the initial treatment.

[17] Physical therapy is an effective treatment modality, with the goal of stretching the iliotibial band, tensor fasciae latae, and gluteus medius.

[2][17][3][18]  Muscular training of the gluteus maximus and hip external rotators is stressed highly as those muscles are associated with many of the risk factors of ITBS.

[3] Surgery typically involves removal of a small piece of the iliotibial band to release excessive tension.

[19] Complications of ITBS include recurrence and exacerbation by return to activity following treatment, as well as possible progression to patellofemoral pain syndrome.

[19] ITBS commonly affects athletes and has been reported in runners, cyclists, rowers, skiers, and triathletes, as well as basketball, soccer, and field hockey players.

[22] Additionally, military trainee in marine boot camps displayed high incidence rate of ITBS.

[6] ITBS was originally described by Lieutenant Commander James W. Renne in 1975 after observing frequent lateral knee pain in recruits participating in intensive military training.