Location
1675 E. Melrose St.
Gilbert, AZ 85297
Contact
480.964.2908
Residency
Hospital for Special Surgery
Medical School
University of Utah
Fellowship Training
Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic
Hospital Affiliations
Arizona Spine & Joint Hospital
Banner Baywood Medical Center
Banner Ironwood Medical Center
Banner Gateway Medical Center
Gateway Surgery Center
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center
Phoenix Children’s Hospital
Arizona General Hospital–Mesa
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IT Band Release
The IT band or iliotibial band is a band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh bone from the hip towards the knee. It stabilizes the knee and hip and prevents dislocation of these joints. Whenever the knee is bent or the hip is flexed, this band rubs against a bony outgrowth of the thigh bone. Overuse of this tissue, as seen in activities requiring repetitive knee flexion and extension, such as long distance running, cycling, volley ball, soccer, weight lifting, skiing and aerobics, leads to a condition called IT band syndrome.
Pain caused by IT band syndrome can be treated by a surgical procedure called IT band release. The surgery helps relieve pressure caused by the tissue band and helps regain mobility in the hip. IT band release has the advantages of low morbidity and quick recovery.
Indications
Conservative treatment provides good response in most cases of IT band syndrome. However, IT band release is indicated for athletes who experience insufficient relief with rest, medications (steroid injections) or stretching exercises as instructed by a physical therapist. The surgery can also be performed for
- External snapping hip syndrome (snapping sound produced during certain hip movements caused by thickening of the iliotibial band)
- Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (tension between the iliotibial band and a prominence of the thigh bone)
Procedure
The surgery is usually performed with minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery (a thin lighted camera is used to view the area of operation), under regional or general anesthesia. A small incision is made on the outer side of the affected area. A portion of the IT band that rubs against the bone is released. If the bursa (a small fluid-filled sac that allows friction-free movement of the band) becomes inflamed (bursitis), the surgeon will excise it, making more room between the greater trochanter (prominence of thigh bone) and the IT band. The incisions are then sutured. The entire procedure takes 30 to 45 minutes to perform and is carried out on an outpatient basis.
Post-operative care
Recovery following the procedure involves a period of rest. You may need to rely on crutches during this period. A gradual exercise regimen may be developed by a physical therapist. The exercises would keep your pain in control, and provide better muscle and joint alignment so that you can resume your sport or other activities.
