The combined effect of myofascial release and hip strength training on iliotibial band syndrome: A preliminary randomized controlled trial
Year: 2025
Type: article
Study designs: Randomized Controlled Trial, Clinical Trial
Abstract: 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.
Authors: Ziwei Ming, Gengxin Dong, Liyu Luo, Lei Yuan, Yutang Li
Language: English
Subfield: Cell Biology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,760
OpenAlex ID: W4415607690