Outer Knee

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) is the most prevalent cause of lateral or outer knee pain in athletes and is often linked to iliotibial band knee irritation, especially during repetitive movements. Along with ITBS pain at the hip, it accounts for more than 12% of all running injuries. Chances are that if you have outer knee pain and are active, or have had a rapid increase in activity, you are suffering from issues involving the IT Band at the knee, such as IT band syndrome. The IT Band is responsible for moving the leg away from the body, internal rotation of hip, knee extension, and knee flexion (under particular conditions).
 

Frequently ITBS is seen in runners who are often running on banked surfaces, doing excessive hill training, or running up and down stairs or bleachers. But, any movement that repeatedly causes the knee to pass back and forth across the 30-degree position can create ITBS at the knees. Addressing outer knee pain is crucial, and proper outer knee pain taping can help support the irritated structures.

Friction and irritation are common as the IT band crosses a bony prominence on the outside of the knee on its way to the shinbone. Outer knee pain is usually most noticeable when running downhill and can range from a sharp sensation on the outside of the knee to pain along the entire IT Band. Often the knee feels like it is “seizing”, and the sore spot is typically painful to the touch. For persistent symptoms, understanding how to apply KT Tape for outer knee pain can make movement more comfortable and may also help if there is discomfort around the medial knee or inner knee.

Though ITBS is very common, pain at the lateral knee can be caused by any number of issues. Many structures that are responsible for multiple types of movement meet here, and any of them can become inflamed and swollen. Examples of other lateral knee pain issues include LCL strains, fibular head problems, meniscus or cartilage damage, as well as arthritis, and others falling under the broader category of a knee ligament injury. This application specifically addresses IT Band pain at the knee, but could also be used for any of the above. LCL taping may help alleviate some symptoms in athletes.

Typical treatment includes resting, icing, and light stretching. Massage therapy and the use of a foam roller can also be helpful. Using outer knee taping techniques with KT Tape may help reduce pain and inflammation for many common injuries*. Learn more about our KT Tape Knee IT Band products for support and stability. Addressing IT Band and LCL common issues can help with everyday use and better performance for athletes.
 

• Full Knee Support
• Inner Knee
• Back of Knee
• Osgood Schlatter

For additional resources, please visit the KT Tape Forum.

*NOT CLINICALLY PROVEN FOR ALL INJURIES.