If you have pain in your leg or knee, you will need to get to the root of the problem before beginning treatment. Whether that treatment involves chiropractic care, braces, medication, surgery, or something else, a proper diagnose is essential to determining the course of action. Two of the most common types of knee and leg pain are patellofemoral pain and iliotibial band syndrome so it helps to be familiar with them.
Patellofemoral Pain
Patellofemoral pain syndrome affects the front portion of your knee. It is most common among athletes, manual laborers, and teens and can be due to the cartilage underneath your kneecap softening, roughening, or wearing down. It may also be due to other changes underneath the kneecap, your kneecap not being aligned properly, injury, excess weight, or overuse.
People suffering from patellofemoral pain syndrome will typically notice the knee pain when squatting, using the stairs, jumping, or sitting with their knees bent. You may have a grinding, popping, or catching sensation when moving the knee. Their knees may even occasionally buckle. A chiropractor or other doctor can diagnose patellofemoral pain with a physical exam, although they will sometimes need an MRI or x-rays to confirm. You can relieve pain by avoiding the activities that cause it, taking non-prescription anti-inflammatory drugs, resting and using ice, doing physical therapy, or using a brace.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Another common cause behind pain in the legs or knees is iliotibial band syndrome, which happens when your iliotibial band is either inflamed or tight. This band is the ligament which connects the shin to the hip along the outside thigh. If your IT band doesn’t function correctly, you are likely to experience pain.
This syndrome is typically due to any action that leads to your leg repeatedly turning inward. You can tell that it is an iliotibial band injury as opposed to a knee issue by bending your knee to a 45-degree angle. IT band issues will produce pain on the knee’s outside portion. Diagnosis may also include an X-ray or MRI. It should be treated with rest, stretches, and medical treatment.
Dr. Cheree Sandness-Johnson at Chiropractic Healing Center can diagnose patellofemoral pain syndrome or iliotibial band syndrome and get you started on the appropriate treatment right away. Contact us and schedule your appointment today.
