Why It's Often Confused
IT Band sits in the same body region as several other running injuries. The wrong call can turn a 2-week recovery into a 2-month one.
IT Band vs Lateral Meniscus Tear
Meniscus pain often involves locking or catching and swelling; ITBS doesn't swell and resolves with rest.
IT Band vs Biceps Femoris Tendinopathy
Biceps femoris hurts above the back of the knee; ITBS hurts on the outside, more forward.
When to Get Imaging
If pain is pinpoint, worsens at rest, wakes you at night, or persists more than 2-3 weeks despite reduced training — see a sports medicine clinician for imaging. Don't wait it out.
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