Question
I've been struggling with tightness in my knee when I run for nearly 2 years now. On the whole if I run slow enough I can run symptom free, but when I increase the pace (to my normal pace) the outside of my left knee (and sometimes right one too) gets tight. It feels like with every step it is being turned like a screw tighter and tighter. At first I thought it was a meniscus problem 'cos it does click sometimes. But i've had an MRI and nothing showed up. I now think it may be due to the fact my upper back is tight and maybe that is making the nerve tight. Also I have a slight problem with my lower back (around L4) it spasms occasionally and hurts when I'm sat on the couch, but running seems to loosen that up and then its fine.
I just want to know what it is and then I can hopefully sort it out but I cant find any information about my symptoms.

Answer
Hi Gillian,

You may be suffering from Iliotibial Band Syndrome. Iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome is an overuse problem that is often seen in bicyclists, runners, and long-distance walkers. It causes pain on the outside of the knee just above the joint. It rarely gets so bad that it requires surgery, but it can be very bothersome.

Your knee pain may be posturally linked to your back pain but I would recommend that you are checked for ITB syndrome.  If you do have ITB syndrome, treatment may consist of stretching, exercises, hip mobilizations, foot orthotics, muscle release therapy, ultrasound and/or laser.

I hope this helps!

Dr. Liza