The combined effect of myofascial release and hip strength training on iliotibial band syndrome: A preliminary randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the short-term outcomes and maintenance effects of myofascial release therapy (MFR) combined with hip strength training versus hip strength training alone on pain, patellofemoral function, and iliotibial band (ITB) thickness in patients with iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS).

DESIGN

Double-blind, randomized controlled trial.

PARTICIPANTS

16 patients (mean age 22.2 ± 1.6 years) with ITBS randomly assigned to an experimental group (MFR combined with hip strength training, n = 8) or a control group (hip strength training alone, n = 8).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: VAS and Kujala scale was measured at baseline, week 2, week 4 and week 8 during intervention. ITB thickness was measured at week 4.

RESULTS

The experimental group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in pain (VAS) at week 2 (mean difference = -1.25 cm, 95 % CI: [-2.10 cm, -0.40 cm]) and ITB thickness at week 4 (mean difference = -0.66 mm, 95 % CI: [-1.15 mm, -0.16 mm]) compared to the control group. However, no significant between-group differences were observed in Kujala scale at any follow-up time point (p > 0.05 for all comparisons).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary evidence suggests MFR may accelerate early pain relief and ITB structural normalization when combined with hip strengthening. Future trials with larger samples,broader functional outcome measures, and longer follow-up are needed to confirm clinical relevance.