Does cortisone injection treat IT band syndrome?

IT band syndrome causes pain and irritation on the outer side of the knee, often when repeated bending and straightening loads the area. Cortisone can reduce local inflammation near the painful tissue, which may make walking or rehabilitation more comfortable.

It does not lengthen the band, change leg alignment, or build strength. Pain may persist if training load, footwear, hip control, or running technique continues to stress the area. Other causes of outer-knee pain should also be considered.

A clinician or physiotherapist can review recent activity, running volume, surface, footwear, hip strength, and knee control. Early care often involves reducing the provoking activity, then gradually rebuilding hip and leg strength and returning to sport as symptoms allow.

If an injection is discussed, clarify its role and aftercare. Do not use reduced pain to resume full training immediately; pain can be masked while the irritated area is still vulnerable. See [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/).

Arrange assessment if pain began after a twist or direct blow, the knee locks or gives way, or swelling limits movement. Seek urgent help for a hot, very swollen knee with fever, inability to bear weight, or new weakness or numbness.

Is the pain coming from the IT band or another knee structure? What activity should I pause, and how should I restart it? Would an injection change my rehabilitation plan? Which hip and leg exercises should I begin, and what symptoms mean I should stop?