IT band pain

Tightness in the iliacus and psoas muscles (your hip flexors) can contribute to IT band pain. The iliotibial (IT) band is a long piece of connective tissue that begins at the iliac crest of the pelvis, runs down the outside of the leg, and crosses the knee joint where it attaches to the tibia (or shin bone). Pain or tightness in the IT band often comes from tension in the surrounding muscles pulling on the IT band, such as the tensor fascia latae (TFL) and glutes.

You can start by using a ball to apply pressure to release these areas and see if that helps, but if the issue persists than there may be a deeper root cause contributing to your IT band pain. What could that be? Tightness in the iliacus and psoas muscles often restrict motion and create misalignment of the hips and pelvis, which then cause muscles like the TFL and glutes to become tight and pull on the IT band, creating pain.

If tension in these areas is contributing to your IT band pain, here's how our products can help.

Mark: releases the iliacus and psoas muscles with precise pressure

Orbit: releases the piriformis and other deep hip rotators in the glute region with broad pressure; can also be used to warm up the hip flexors before using the Mark, or can be used on the TFL directly

Band: helps strengthen key muscles around your core, glutes, and hips to create stability and reduce stress on the lower back and hips

Book: our Founder's book Tight Hip, Twisted Core - The Key to Unresolved Pain offers deeper insights into muscle tension and how it is impacting your pain, helping you understand how to address the root cause

When used consistently over time, the Aletha Health products support less muscle tension, better alignment, and increased strength & stability. This combination has helped many people improve their IT band pain, and we hope it will help you too.

For best results, use the Aletha Health products together and alongside other stretches and exercises. Please check with your healthcare practitioner for which stretches and exercises are most appropriate for you.

*The information contained herein is for general informational and illustrative purposes and is not intended to be nor should be construed as medical advice or a substitute for your doctor’s care.

*Always seek the advice of your health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and prior to using any Aletha Health products.