Date of Award

2009

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Schawnn Decker

Keywords

Iliotibial Band Syndrome -- therapy; Case Reports

Abstract

Background and Purpose. Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) is one of the most common repetitive injuries treated in outpatient physical therapy and if left untreated, can lead to debilitating consequences for an individual. The purpose of this report is to describe the progression of conservative interventions that were used during outpatient physical therapy for a patient with the diagnosis of ITBFS in order for the patient to return to pain free activities of daily living.

Case Description. The patient was a 29 year old male who experienced pain over his c right greater trochanter and pain and snapping over his lateral right knee with an accompanying tight iliotibial band (ITB). The pain and tightness prevented the patient from performing pain free activities of daily living, including caring for his children, walking, and climbing stairs. The intensity of his pain was assessed with a visual analogue scale and ITB tightness was assessed using the Ober's test. The treatment for this patient involved phonophoresis, range of motion, stretching, strengthening, and soft tissue mobilization/deep transverse friction massage.

Outcomes. Following seven treatments of physical therapy interventions, the patient achieved almost full hip active range of motion, decreased pain over hip and knee, and increased ITB flexibility. The patient was able to return to caring for his children and had improved tolerance for activities of daily living.

Discussion. This case report illustrates that patients diagnosed with ITBFS may significantly benefit from conservative physical therapy treatment, despite the lack of research supporting its use.

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