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IT band syndrome after knee replacement

Joint Replacements | Last Active: Feb 20, 2023 | Replies (164)

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@joanb1229

I had a TKR on 12/1/22 on my left knee and everything seemed to be going along nicely. At about 5 weeks out I stated feeling a sharp almost burning pain on the outside of my left knee. I was a really good patient and did all my PT as directed, in fact, I may have over done some of it. In fact at 6 weeks, it was hurting so much, I went in to see my Dr. and he had me go back on inflammatory medication, gave me more pain meds, and told me to stay home from from work for 2 more weeks.
My PT told me she thought it was IT Band Syndrome and did some cupping and massages that really helped in addition to my stretches. I am currently at -2% and 110%. I can't get in to see my DR. for another week! My husband bought me an IT Band Strap which helps, but of course I can't live my life wearing it.
Anyone have further recommendations or words of wisdoms. I have so much pain when I flex my knee just to walk and if not wearing the strap, I need up in tears by 5:00pm.Thanks,

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Replies to "I had a TKR on 12/1/22 on my left knee and everything seemed to be going..."

Hello, I was just diagnosed with popliteal tendonopathy. However I had to scour the web to find this issue. I made appointment with sports medicine doctor who did guided ultrasound to officially diagnose. I have had this pain a year and tried acupuncture, cupping, shockwave, MFR and nerve ablation, the latter not reaching the tendon. Now I have to find a surgeon to do arthroscopic tendon relief, cleaning up someone else’s mess! Told operating surgeon my symptoms at 6 and 12 months but he didn’t recognize this. Needs more training on complications! Call a sports medicine specialist. Is my recommendation. Good luck.

Good evening @joanb1229, and welcome to Connect. Your post today is a perfect example of what Connect is all about. Our mission is to encourage sharing with a focus on medical conditions and treatments that just may help others.

So....yesterday I came home from my Monday MFR session to see that you have been introduced to the IT Band Syndrome. Coincidentally, my entire session yesterday was all about IT Band Syndrome. I have two MFR therapists at both of my weekly sessions. After working on my feet so that I can continue to walk and drive and do my yoga stretches, one focus of the session every week is to reduce the pain and numbness in my feet.

While the MFR therapist was down at my toes, I asked her to take a look at an area at the top right of my knee because it was quite painful and felt sort of "tight". You're right, it was an episode of IT Band syndrome. I haven't had one for quite a while but they do seem to pop up when you least expect them........as the saying goes.

So 20 minutes later after a couple of shockingly painful moments when I almost fell off the massage table, the area relaxed quite a bit and I was able to head home with a greater degree of comfort.

And that seems to be how it goes. This TKR on my right knee happened 18 months ago and the recovery period was surprisingly easy and successful. Except for an occasional IT Band issue, I am very happy with the result. I don't always recognize the source of the discomfort, but my MFR therapists know what is happening and kindly "attack" the actual restriction. I will warn you that the release is often shockingly painful for a few moments. And then it is gone. I may not have another one for a year......but somehow they reappear every once in a while.

Here is what Mayo Clinic reports about IT Band Syndrome after TKR.
"This occurs when the tough band of tissue that extends from the outside of your hip to the outside of your knee (iliotibial band) becomes so tight that it rubs against the outer portion of your thighbone. "

How can you prevent them? Taking time to stretch, warm up and cool down, is one way to begin. And then don't overdue. You can also make use of your ice pack to prevent further swelling. I am sure your PT can provide additional information about potential causes and treatments.

How is the knee feeling this evening?

May you be free of suffering and the causes of suffering.
Chris

https://health.clevelandclinic.org/it-band-stretches-and-treatments-to-relieve-knee-and-hip-pain/…..I also had it problems these stretches help so much …..I have done a lot of mfr and chiropractor to get through that pain …..hope this stretch helps