Abstract
Abstract
Background:
Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is one of the most common overuse injuries among distance runners. The syndrome is triggered by excessive friction on the distal iliotibial band, as it slides against the lateral epicondyle of the femur during repetitive knee motions that results in inflammation of the band and anterolateral knee pain.
Case:
In this prospective observational case study, the effectiveness of electroacupuncture (EA) in a male adult with ITBS was documented with magnetic resonance images. The patient was treated, using an acupuncture needle inserted into the distal iliotibial band with a direct current of 12 V and 200 μ-amperes applied for 30 seconds; the treatment was repeated weekly six times.
Results:
After the 6-week treatment, a comparison between pre- and post-treatment images revealed that the thickening of the iliotibial band and the lateral patellar shift were reduced; those biomechanical changes likely contributed to a decrease on the numeric pain rating scale reported by the patient.
Conclusions:
The positive finding for EA with direct current in the present case warrants further investigation.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.