Distal iliotibial tract

Cause, clinical and ultrasound findings

• Pain in the iliotibial tract typically results from overuse by runners or from poor lower limb biomechanics as the iliotibial tract flicks over the lateral femoral condyle.

• On examination, the patient’s pain can be elicited on palpation over the distal portion of the iliotibial tract and over the lateral femoral condyle; pain can also be experienced on both passive leg adduction and resisted leg abduction.

• Ultrasound findings may include hypoechoic irregular thickening of the iliotibial tract with fluid underneath in the bursa.