JW:
yes, it could be an ITB syndrome. But it could also be the Lateral collateral ligament. You might even have some meniscus irritation or involvement. Either way, you probably twisted it doing a dumby drag or doing a quick change of direction while running. If what I suggest below does not help, go to a good Physical Therapist, or a chiropractor who specializes in sports med. Or ask me again, and if you are in certain areas, I might be able to refer you to someone. This could always be more serious, so, not wanting to ruin your future career, it wouldn't be a bad idea to have it looked at.
I have never heard of an ITB syndrome becoming a surgical case. (Not that I know every case). But, if the others are involved, well... better safe than sorry. Leaving inflammation to fester in a knee makes the joint tissues soft and more prone to injury if you keep running.
Resting it would be good, but, I am guessing you really want to stay in your academy, huh? So, let's start with this: Use ice cubes or make big ones in dixie cups. Do 5 minutes (no more, no less) of ice cube "massage" over the area 3-4 times per day. Wait no more that 5 hours between icings.
The inflammatory process is like a camp fire. It needs to be stamped out over and over. Repeatedly. Even after the pain is gone. If you walk away, and don't pour water on it, it could re-kindle.
Do this for a week. If the pain is not gone, see someone. If it is gone, do it for 3 more days after the pain is gone.
OH: DON'T PUT HEAT ON IT!
Let me know!

Dr. Jen Milus, DC
Author of Fire it Up CPAT Training System
www.fireagility.com
This message was edited by DrJen on 11-16-05 @ 5:16 PM

Dr Jen
Thank you for the response. I went to a knee specialist today and he did confirm that I have IT Band Syndrome. He gave me a prescription anti-inflamitory and Physical therapy.

I will take your advice and Ice it every chance I get. This is without a doubt the worst pain to have when you have to run.

Thank you for your time.

JW

Yeah, it doesn't feel good, that's for sure.
Good about the PT- they'll probably do some cross friction and some ultrasound, maybe even some icing. It should work well!
Best of luck!


Dr. Jen Milus, DC
Author of Fire it Up CPAT Training System
www.fireagility.com
This message was edited by DrJen on 11-17-05 @ 12:56 PM

Dr. Jen
It is me again with the I.T. band problem. Well, after many sleepless nights I think I have figured out my problem: MY SHOES!! About 1 month prior to starting the academy I went out and purchased new shoes. My friend told me to go to a place where they look at your stride and then fit you for the right shoe. When I run I usually supinate my foot and I have done that for years with no problems in my knee. What they suggested was to get a shoe that puts my foot neutral to try and correct my supination.

I guess my question to you is, could this adjustment in shoes have caused my I.T. band problem? And if so, how long will it take to heal if I go back to my old shoes again??

Thank you for your time.

JW
This message was edited by jwoods10 on 11-22-05 @ 1:11 PM

Dr. Jen
It is me again with the I.T. band problem. Well, after many sleepless nights I think I have figured out my problem: MY SHOES!! About 1 month prior to starting the academy I went out and purchased new shoes. My friend told me to go to a place where they look at your stride and then fit you for the right shoe. When I run I usually supinate my foot and I have done that for years with no problems in my knee. What they suggested was to get a shoe that puts my foot neutral to try and correct my supination.

I guess my question to you is, could this adjustment in shoes have caused my I.T. band problem? And if so, how long will it take to heal if I go back to my old shoes again??

Thank you for your time.

JW

This message was edited by jwoods10 on 11-22-05 @ 1:11 PM