Painkillers | ITBS-Iliotibial Band Syndrome Symptoms/Pain

Painkillers

Typically, in the initial phase of an acute iliotibial band syndrome, painkillers such as ibuprufen or diclofenac are used. These 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 frequently used. Here, the ointment is applied to the ultrasound probe and massaged in during the treatment. Furthermore, cortisone injections can inhibit the pain and inflammation in an iliotibial band syndrome. However, cortisone destroys connective tissue during longer applications and should therefore only be used locally if other options are not possible.

OP

If all conservative therapy measures do not bring about an improvement, a surgical intervention can provide relief of the symptoms. The aim of the operation is to lengthen the tractus iliotibialis in order to eliminate the constant over-stimulation. During the operation, a z-shaped incision (incision) is made in the tractus. If there is a malposition of the leg axis (bow legs), this can also be corrected surgically.

Pain after surgery

In some cases, pain can still be observed after surgery on the iliotibial tract. There are various possible causes for this: In addition, you may also be interested in these articles:

  • The gluteal muscles may continue to shorten even after the tract is lengthened. In this case, daily stretching exercises should be used for the gluteal muscles.
  • Another reason for pain after the operation is the adaptation phase of all structures involved in the joint play in the knee joint.

    Muscles, tendons, ligaments and menisci must first adapt to function painlessly again. Therefore, supportive physiotherapy or rehabilitation should be started immediately after the operation.

  • Pain can also be caused by a renewed inflammation in the area of the surgical site. Depending on the trigger, postoperative treatment with cortisone, NSAIDs or antibiotics may be necessary until the inflammation has subsided.
  • Pain can also be caused by the operation scar, since scar tissue is not as mobile as normal skin tissue. Therefore, scar mobilization should be started as early as possible to ensure maximum mobility of the scar tissue.
  • Physiotherapy Iliotibial Band Syndrome
  • Stretching exercises gluteus muscle