Kinesiology Taping

Knee Taping: KT Taping Lateral Knee - ITBS - Patella Tracking

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Published on Sunday, 02 January 2011 01:50

Written by Admin

Lateral knee pain which is pain on the outside of the knee can indicate a number of different causes.
These include:

• Runner’s Knee or ITBS (Iliotibial Band Syndrome)
• Lateral Meniscus Tear
• Patellofemoral Instability (Lateral Patella Tracking)
• PFPS (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
• Arthritis

These conditions happen as the result of overuse and often include inflammation or irritation of the structures that make up the lateral knee. Each of these conditions has its own well-established treatments that include rest, icing after activity, anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy and strength training.

ITBS (Iliotibial Band Syndrome)

ITBS is common in runners, hence the designation as Runner’s Knee. However, it can be created by any movement that repeatedly causes the knee to pass back and forth across the 30 degree position.

• See our article on ITBS
• See another kinesiology taping for IT Band Syndrome as it relates to outside or lateral hip pain

Lateral Meniscus Tear

Caused by over-rotation of the knee internally, hyper-extending or hyper-flexing the knee, or simply from overuse. The cartilage or meniscus becomes damaged towards the outside of the knee causing less integrity of the system that constitutes the lateral knee.

Patellofemoral Instability (Lateral Patella Tracking)

This condition occurs when the kneecap does not move up and down as it is supposed to do. The kneecap (patella) will track at an angle to the outside versus straight up and down. This results in injury to the surrounding tissue. Many athletes, primarily adolescent girls, commonly experience this condition.

• See our article on patellar maltracking
• See our review of the Bauerfeind knee brace designed for patellar maltracking

Arthritis

The cartilage in the knee degenerates and ceases to provide a smooth surface for bones to move along. The lubricating functionality of the joint is negatively affected and causes irregularities in the bone.

• See our recommended brand of Glucosamine supplements in this category

Proper diagnosis of the source of your pain is vital to creating a treatment plan to reduce pain and improve function

KT Tape has been helpful for lateral knee pain, regardless of its source, through its ability to provide support without limiting mobility.
KT Tape cues large muscle groups like the quadriceps to do their job in supporting knee movement. By creating surface tension on the skin over the area needing support, KT Tape creates a light, comfortable support structure that relieves pain and restores mobility.