Medicines against inflammation
Typically, in the initial phase of an acute iliotibial band syndrome, painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac are used for treatment. These drugs from the group of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) also have an anti-inflammatory function. A local application by means of an ointment should be preferred, as this way no negative side effects on internal organs (kidney, liver, heart) can occur. A combination of ultrasound and ointment application is also possible. In this case, the ointment is applied to the ultrasound probe and massaged in during the treatment.
Medication for pain
Depending on the severity of the pain, three variants of analgesic painkillers are used. However, tolerance and dose increase as well as withdrawal symptoms after discontinuing the opiates are to be expected.
- If the pain is mild, treatment is with acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, diclofenac or paracetamol.
- For moderate pain, pain relief is achieved with low-potency opiates such as codeine, tramadol or tilidine.
- However, if the pain is very severe, high-potency opiates such as morphine, oxycodone, buprenorphine or hydromorphone may be the remedy of choice in iliotibial band syndrome.
Injections into the knee joint
If the administration of NSAIDs or other anti-inflammatory drugs is not sufficient, a local injection of cortisone can be given. Cortisone inhibits the inflammation and relieves the symptoms of the affected person, but a cortisone injection does not eliminate the actual cause of iliotibial band syndrome. When cortisone is used locally, a low dose is usually sufficient and also has the advantage that no organ damage to the liver or kidneys can occur. Caution is required when treating tendonitis with cortisone, as cortisone can damage the tendon tissue if used for a long period of time.
Duration of the syndrome
The duration of an Iliotibial Ligament Syndrome is also largely dependent on the discipline of the person affected. Especially in the beginning, it is essential to prevent sporting activity and the associated excessive demands on the already damaged tissue. If the affected person adheres to this requirement, the pain soon subsides for days.
However, this should not be taken as a reason to start training again immediately. The tissue has a longer healing process and should be spared for another three to four weeks. However, there is nothing to be said against doing the stretching and strengthening exercises listed above to bring the leg closer to normal load so that injuries can be prevented in the further course of the training.Comprehensive information on this topic can be found in the article: ITBS symptoms/pain
