Kinematics of recreational runners with iliotibial band injury

Abstract

According to the literature, the risk of developing iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is related to the running technique of each runner. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether differences exist in the running technique of runners with ITBS and healthy runners. The sample was composed of 60 recreational runners (30 healthy runners and 30 with ITBS). A 3D kinematic analysis was performed to measure 3D joint angles of the lower limb. Reaction forces in the stance phase of running were also determined. Runners in the ITBS group exhibited significantly lower contact time, knee valgus, peak knee flexion and hip rotation. Of note, gender-based differences were observed. No differences were found between groups in hip adduction angle, tibial internal rotation and foot kinematics. The runners with current ITBS showed an altered kinematic profile. Male and female runners with ITBS showed different alterations in running kinematics. These results suggest that gender should be considered when investigating the biomechanical etiology of ITBS.