Radial Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Individuals With Iliotibial Band Syndrome

The Iliotibial Band Syndrome is a frequently occurring overuse condition among runners and active individuals that often leads to persistent lateral knee pain and reduced function. Although exercise, particularly hip abductor strengthening, is considered effective, the optimal rehabilitation approach remains unclear. Recent evidence suggests that combining Radial Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy with exercise may improve pain and function more than exercise alone.Therefore, evaluating whether the combination of rESWT and exercise is more effective than exercise alone is clinically relevant.

Inclusion criteria

• Physically active individuals aged 18 and 45 years
• Have a clinical diagnosis of iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) confirmed by physician within the previous four weeks.
• Report lateral knee pain during running or other functional activities
• No history of direct trauma
• Have a positive Noble compression or/and Ober test.

Exclusion criteria

• History of knee surgery,fracture , meniscal or ligamentous injury within the past year
• Any fracture involving the lower extremity within the previous six months
• Neurological disorders
• Lumbar radiculopathy
• Systemic inflammatory disease
• Any medical condition affecting gat or lower extremity function.
• Have received corticosteroid injection, shockwave therapy, or physical therapy treatment for ITBS within the previous six months
• Use of NDAID's or analgesics later than 2 weeks
• Individuals with contraindications to ESWT, including pregnancy, bleeding disorders, or use of anticoagulant medication.