Arthroscopic Treatment for Chronic Iliotibial Band Syndrome at DRHC Dubai.

Living with chronic iliotibial (IT) band syndrome can be exhausting—both physically and emotionally. The persistent pain along the outer side of your knee, especially during walking, running, or climbing stairs, can disrupt your daily activities and keep you from doing what you love.

When stretching, physiotherapy, and other non-surgical options no longer provide relief, it's normal to feel anxious about the next steps. At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, our orthopedic specialists offer arthroscopic treatment—a safe, effective, and minimally invasive solution for chronic IT band syndrome that doesn’t respond to conservative care.

What Is Iliotibial Band Syndrome?

The IT band is a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of your thigh, from the hip to the shin. Its role is to help stabilize the knee during movement.

IT band syndrome occurs when this band becomes tight or inflamed, often due to repetitive motion or biomechanical issues. While it typically affects runners and athletes, it can also occur in anyone who engages in repetitive leg movements.

Common symptoms include:

Sharp or burning pain on the outer side of the knee
Discomfort that worsens with activity
Tenderness or swelling in the area
Clicking or snapping sensation during knee movement

When Is Arthroscopic Treatment Considered?

At DRHC Dubai, we prioritize non-surgical treatments like rest, physiotherapy, foam rolling, and injections. However, if symptoms persist beyond 6–12 months despite consistent conservative care, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended.

Arthroscopy is typically considered when:

There is chronic inflammation or thickening of the IT band
Pain significantly interferes with daily activities or sports
Imaging shows bursal inflammation or scar tissue under the IT band
Non-surgical methods have failed to improve your condition

What Happens During Arthroscopic IT Band Release?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure performed under local or general anesthesia. It uses a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions.

During the procedure, the surgeon may:

Trim or release a small portion of the IT band to reduce friction
Remove inflamed tissue or scar tissue beneath the band (especially from the bursa)
Correct structural issues contributing to the problem

The goal is to reduce pain and restore smooth, pain-free movement of the knee.

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FAQs: What Patients Often Ask

🩺 Is arthroscopic IT band surgery painful?

You may experience mild discomfort after surgery, but it is usually well-controlled with medication. Because the procedure is minimally invasive, pain is generally much less than with traditional open surgery.

⏱️ How long is the recovery time?

Most patients recover within 4 to 6 weeks. You’ll likely return to walking within a few days and begin physical therapy shortly after to support healing and improve mobility.

🏃‍♂️ Will I be able to return to sports?

Yes, with proper rehabilitation, many patients resume sports and physical activity within 6–8 weeks—often pain-free for the first time in months.

⚠️ Are there risks involved?

As with any surgery, risks include infection, bleeding, or stiffness. However, because arthroscopy is minimally invasive, the risk of complications is low when performed by an experienced orthopedic team—such as those at DRHC Dubai.

🔁 Will the pain come back?

When combined with post-surgical physiotherapy and biomechanical correction, recurrence is uncommon. Addressing the root cause—such as muscle imbalance or poor running form—is key to long-term success.

What Makes Arthroscopic Treatment at DRHC Dubai Different?

At DRHC Dubai, we take a comprehensive and patient-centered approach. From diagnosis to recovery, your care is guided by experienced orthopedic surgeons who specialize in minimally invasive procedures and sports injuries. You’ll also have access to in-house physiotherapy, advanced diagnostics, and personalized follow-up, all under one roof.

We understand that surgery can feel like a big step. That’s why we take the time to explain your options, answer your questions, and ensure you feel supported every step of the way.

Conclusion: A Path Toward Lasting Relief

Chronic IT band syndrome can take a toll on your physical comfort and emotional well-being. If you’ve tried rest, therapy, and other treatments without success, arthroscopic IT band release may offer the lasting relief you deserve.

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center in Dubai, we’re here to guide you through a safe, effective, and personalized treatment journey. Schedule a consultation with our orthopedic team to explore whether arthroscopic treatment is the right option for you.

Dr. Rami Hamed
Consultant Spine & Orthopedic Surgeon
Founder, DRHC – Dubai Healthcare City
📞 ‪+971 4 279 8800‬
🌐 www.drhc.ae
📍 Dubai Healthcare City, Building 52