IT band syndrome is also known as Iliotibial band friction syndrome (ITBFS) and affects between 1.6% and 12% of people.
The most common symptom of ITBFS is a sharp pain in the lateral femoral condyle, which is a muscle in the knee. It’s most commonly seen in athletes and especially those athletes who are cardio-intensive athletes.
Repetitive knee motion is a common cause of IT band syndrome. And if you’re a Crossfit athlete, you know all about repetition. That’s why we’re bringing you this guide to everything you need to know about treating ITBFS pain with IT band massages.
Curious about how an IT band massage can relieve your Crossfit-related knee pain? Then keep reading.
What is an IT Band Massage?
Massage has long been a popular solution with athletes, sports therapists, and trainers. Not only do massages help treat sports-related injuries but they also help with post-workout recovery and enhancing performance.
And IT band massage are particularly helpful for athletes with IT band injuries.
An IT band massage utilizes effleurage, petrissage, and DTFM techniques. Using gentle to deep pressure, the massage therapist will knead the region surrounding your lateral femoral condyle. Depending on your tolerance, you can increase or decrease the depth of pressure.
Who Needs an IT Band Massage?
ITBFS is most common in athletes. This is especially true for high-cardio sports like cycling and running. That’s why IT band massage patients are also commonly seen with Crossfit athletes.
Knee pain may also stem from patellofemoral syndrome, greater trochanteric pain syndrome, or hip and knee problems. If you suffer from one of these issues, you may benefit from an IT band massage.
How IT Band Massages Improve Your Performance
In a review of the use of massage in sports therapy, IT massage can improve an athlete’s:
- Psychological state
- Post-workout flexibility
- Progress during rehabilitation
Studies show that mood, blood pressure, and subjective perception of rehabilitation progress improve pre-workout mental states. These effects are more prominent directly after a massage.
Another study found that hamstring flexibility improves after a massage. This is also true for grip capacity, which increases acutely after a sports massage.
Finally, there is much research on the role of IT band massage during rehabilitation. Massages can reduce IT band pain while improving performance during rehabilitation exercises.
Assisted Stretching Therapy for Crossfit Athletes
A sports massage isn’t the only thing that can help improve performance after an IT band injury. Fascial stretching or stretching of the knee area is an extremely common treatment for a painful, tight, or injured muscle.
If you’re tired of your knee pain holding you back during your Crossfit workout, it’s time to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist. IT band massages aren’t the only service that can help you.
Looking for assistance with your athletics-related pain? Stretch22 provides assisted stretching therapy for athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and even office workers who spend workdays sitting. Schedule an appointment with us and start improving your Crossfit performance today.