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| | Ilotibial Band |
 | | The IT Band is a long, non-elastic structure on the outside of the thigh, that crosses both the hip and knee (see picture.) Two muscles at the top of the hip, the tensor fascia lata and gluteus maximus, both blend into the IT Band. |
 | | In adolescent females that have complaints of knee pain (patellofemoral and dislocations), tightness of the IT Band may be the causative factor. |
 | | To manage IT Band tightness, the specific activity that brings on the pain should be discontinued until the doctor or physical therapist "clears the patient." Several cross training options are available in the interim (swimming, walking, cycling, and various cardiovascular machines.) Ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy modalities should be used initially to reduce pain. |
| www.coretherapy.com /health_news/articles_iliotibial_band.html (490 words) |
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