Use of osteopathic manipulative treatment for iliotibial band friction syndrome

Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) has long been recognized as one of the most common lower-extremity injuries in athletes, especially in long-distance runners. Conservative therapy, including rest, ice, heat, stretching, and the use of anti-inflammatory medications, has been effective in helping athletes return to full competition, but athletes still miss much time in their sports because of ITBFS. The author presents a case of a 30-year-old distance runner with ITBFS whose symptoms were reduced with the help of osteopathic manipulative treatment, specifically the counterstrain technique. This technique allows for relief of pain at a tender point by moving the affected body part into its position of greatest comfort, aiding in the reduction of proprioceptor activity. In the present case, the tender point was located from 0 to 3 cm (most commonly 2 cm) proximal to the lateral femoral epicondyle. There is no prior documentation of the osteopathic manipulation of this specific tender point. Thus, this case report reflects an initial identification of the distal iliotibial band tender point and a new therapeutic modality for ITBFS.