IT Band compression bands

[morningstar]

Hey y'all,

I have been diagnosed with ITBS (IT Band Friction Syndrome). I keep seeing these IT Band compression bands advertised in the back of Runner's World (here's an example: http://injurybegone.com/products/itband-LEG.html) Has anyone tried these (or something similar), and if so, could you provide a review?

Thanks!

 

[Jennifit]

I used them for years when I ran cross country. I used them a lot for speed work. I think they did help a bit. But, what helped me the most was icing ALL the time and massages my IT. I think sometimes I wore them with fear that if I didn't, my IT would get worse...
I know I was of no help. But, really icing is the best way to go. Good luck!! Sorry you are going through this...

 

[DirtDiva]

Hey y'all,

I have been diagnosed with ITBS (IT Band Friction Syndrome). I keep seeing these IT Band compression bands advertised in the back of Runner's World (here's an example: http://injurybegone.com/products/itband-LEG.html) Has anyone tried these (or something similar), and if so, could you provide a review?

Thanks!

I use them for snowshoe-running, love them! They saved me when I started doing Cathe's Bootcamp (talk about slaying me in a different way). In the attached link I have the upper two products called Cho-Pats. These are really good representations of the bands out there. McDavids are good too, but the Cho-Pats are really well made.

http://www.knee-braces-store.com/Iliotibial+Band+Syndrome.html

 

[buckeyegirl]

I tried the compression bands - not the specific one you mentioned, but a similar one - and found it didn't help. I agree with the icing. Also, go to youtube and search ITband stretches - there are some really good ones on there that are very helpful. Also, invest in a foam roller. They have a good one at target for around $20. Comes with a DVD that helps. Youtube also has some foam roller moves for IT band.

IT issues have plagued me off and on. Slow down on training a bit - I found really increasing my running too much/too fast really aggravated mine.

Also search ITband problems on Runners World website - some helpful hints there.

Hope that helps!
Heidi

 

[Beavs]

I have to agree with stretching and icing. They are critical to your sanity. I use a cryo cuff on knee after every workout. I also do a variety of targeted stretches, use a foam roller, and do a variety of balance exercises I learned in PT. I got lazy for a while and the IT pain came back to bite me in the arse...err...the knee actually.

 

[horseshowmom]

My foam roller has saved my life with IT Band issues...as has stretching properly! I'm also working on adopting ChiRunning practices to avoid further issues.

 

[morningstar]

Thanks so much, everyone! I am doing the foam rollering, and stretching and some strengthening for my medial quad, which is weaker than my outer thigh muscles. I have to admit to extremely rarely icing anything. I see my physiotherapist for the first time tonight, so I'm looking forward to feeling better soon. It sounds like the IT compression band doesn't hurt, but isn't really amazingly helpful either for most people, so I will probably pass on it. However, I may invest in the Cho-Pats.

Merry Christmas or suitable alternative holiday of your choice!