Exploration of shear wave elastography measures of the iliotibial band during different tasks in pain-free runners

Abstract

ObjectivesTo determine whether shear wave velocity (SWV) of the iliotibial band (ITB): i) increases with active and passive static tasks, and a dynamic task, ii) differs between ITB regions, iii) changes after exposure to running. Additionally, it aimed to determine the between-day reliability. DesignCase series & test-retest. SettingHuman movement unit laboratory. ParticipantsFifteen runners. Main outcome measuresSWV was measured unilaterally in three regions of the ITB (proximal, middle and distal), during six tasks: rest and contraction (pre- and post-running), modified Ober test, standing, pelvic drop, and weight shift. ResultsCompared to rest, SWV was higher during contraction and Ober test in the distal and middle regions, and higher for the middle region in standing and pelvic drop. No differences were found between regions. A tendency of decreased SWV was observed after running. Compared to the start of the dynamic task, SWV was greater at the end of the movement. Reliability was moderate-to-good for the middle region in the standing tasks (ICCs = 0.68 to 0.84). ConclusionSVW of the ITB was higher under passive or active tension. Comparisons between tasks/regions need to be considered in light of the small sample size and poor repeatability of some regions/conditions.