Effects of Myofascial Release With and Without EMMETT Technique in Iliotibial Band Syndrome

Effects of Myofascial Release With and Without EMMETT Technique in Iliotibial Band Syndrome

The iliotibial (IT) tract or band is a lateral thickening of the fascia lata that is composed of the distal fusion of the muscular fascia of the gluteus maximus and tensor fascia lata muscles. The iliotibial tract travels along the lateral side of the thigh and across the knee joint, inserting on the lateral epicondyle of the tibia. A tight IT band has been diagnosed in several problems related to the knee including patellofemoral syndrome and iliotibial band syndrome. Several authors have suggested that tightness in the IT band may contribute to patellofemoral syndrome and knee pain by pulling the patella laterally thereby causing abnormal tracking of the patella in the trochlear groove. Stretching of the iliotibial band is frequently recommended in treatment programs for patients with LBP. Because the iliotibial band attaches to the ilium, tightness of this muscle is thought to cause anterior innominate rotation and lateral pelvic tilt. The Ober test is performed to assess tightness in the iliotibial band.

The term myofascial release encompasses various techniques used to release fascial restrictions. Many forms of bodywork that includes a soft tissue technique exist with Bowen therapy, Emmett technique, deep tissue massage, neuromuscular techniques (NMT), Muscle Energy Techniques (MET) and foam rolling.

This study focusses on effects of myofascial release with Emmett technique. This study will be conducted in a clinical set up (Saba's physical therapy, rehabilitation and sports injury clinic in Gulberg 3) and will take 6 months. Study will be conducted on 22 subjects involving 11 subjects in each group. Group A will be given myofascial release only and group B will be given myofascial release with Emmett technique. Total duration of study will be three weeks and assessment will be done before treatment and after every week. Numeric pain rating scale, goniometer and vertical jump test are used for assessing pain, flexibility and power respectively.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Positive Ober's Test
• Both males and females
• Age 25 to 45 years

Exclusion Criteria:

• TFL (Tensor Fascia Lata) tightness
• Any pathological and traumatic conditions, Fractures and Dislocation,
• Already received few sessions of Manual Therapy treatment
• Taking corticosteroids, analgesic or anti-inflammatory drugs.
• Treatment of lower limb myofascial pain or trigger points at the time of the study • Current or previous symptoms of pathology reported in the lower limbs or pelvis