A small bursa lies between the IT band and the lateral femoral epicondyle at approximately 30 degrees of knee flexion, the exact point where the IT band transitions from anterior to posterior to the epicondyle and maximal friction occurs. Inflammation of this bursa contributes to the IT band syndrome pain pattern in runners. Whether IT band syndrome is primarily bursitis or fascial friction is debated, but the bursa is consistently inflamed on MRI in symptomatic runners.
| Location | Between the IT band and the lateral femoral epicondyle at the 30-degree impingement zone |
|---|---|
| Nearby |
|
Reduces friction between the IT band and the lateral femoral epicondyle during repetitive knee flexion-extension
The IT band bursa is identified on MRI or ultrasound as fluid and thickening between the IT band and the lateral femoral epicondyle at the 30-degree flexion point. The Noble compression test reproduces pain over this precise anatomical location. The condition is common in runners and cyclists, and load management, correcting training errors, and hip abductor strengthening are the mainstays of treatment. The bursa may be injected under ultrasound guidance when conservative management is insufficient.
Lateral femoral epicondyle bursal inflammation in distance runners producing pain at the impingement zone, managed with load modification, foam rolling, and occasionally bursal injection.
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