The iliotibial band (ITB) or tract is a lateral thickening of the fascia lata in the thigh. Proximally it splits into superficial and deep layers, enclosing tensor fasciae latae and anchoring this muscle to the iliac crest (Standring, 2004). It also receives most of the tendon of gluteus maximus.

What is the iliotibial tract function?

The iliotibial tract or iliotibial band (also known as Maissiat’s band or the IT band) is a longitudinal fibrous reinforcement of the fascia lata. The action of the muscles associated with the ITB (tensor fasciae latae and some fibers of gluteus maximus) flex, extend, abduct, and laterally and medially rotate the hip.

What causes iliotibial pain?

Iliotibial (IT) band syndrome is often caused by repetitively bending the knee during physical activities, such as running, cycling, swimming, and climbing. The IT band is a group of fibers that run the length of the upper leg, from the hip to the top of the shin. When overused, the IT band can become tightened.

Why is the iliotibial tract important?

The iliotibial tract, also known as the iliotibial band, is a thick strip of connective tissue connecting several muscles in the lateral thigh. It plays an important role in the movement of the thigh by connecting hip muscles to the tibia of the lower leg.

What muscles attach to the iliotibial tract?

The gluteus maximus muscle and the tensor fasciae latae insert upon the tract.

How do I stop my IT band from hurting?

To help prevent IT band syndrome, you can:

1. Allow plenty of time to properly stretch, warm up, and cool down.
2. Give your body enough time to recover between workouts or events.
3. Run with a shorter stride.
4. Run on flat surfaces or alternate which side of the road you run on.
5. Replace your shoes regularly.

What is iliotibial tract How is it formed give its significance?

It encloses the thigh muscles and forms the outer limit of the fascial compartments of thigh, which are internally separated by intermuscular septa. The fascia lata is thickened at its lateral side where it forms the iliotibial tract, a structure that runs to the tibia and serves as a site of muscle attachment.

What is the iliotibial tract?

The iliotibial band (ITB) or tract is a lateral thickening of the fascia lata in the thigh. Proximally it splits into superficial and deep layers, enclosing tensor fasciae latae and anchoring this muscle to the iliac crest (Standring, 2004). It also receives most of the tendon of gluteus maximus.

Does the IT band stabilize the knee?

The iliotibial band helps stabilize the knee and prevent dislocation. When it becomes inflamed, pain and swelling often occur as a result. If left untreated, IT band syndrome can lead to scarring in the bursa, the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the knee.

What does the iliotibial band connect to?

The iliotibial band is a thick band of fascia (tissue) that begins at the iliac crest in the pelvis, runs down the lateral or outside part of the thigh, and crosses the knee to attach into the top part of the tibia or shinbone.

What muscle inserts on the iliotibial tract and gluteal tuberosity?

The gluteal tuberosity is the main site of insertion the gluteus maximus muscle. The gluteus maximus muscle also inserts into the iliotibial tract.

Where does the iliotibial tract continue from?

The iliotibial tract continues to descend on the lateral surface of the thigh, and inserts onto the lateral tibial plateau at a projection known as Gerdy’s tubercle. It lies on top of the vastus lateralis head of the quadriceps femoris. The tensor fascia lata acts through the iliotibial band, and supports the knee.