The Iliotibial Band Is a Vital Part of Locomotion

The iliotibial band is responsible for storing about 5 to 8% of the energy of running. It also provides a very robust, I guess, reinforcement against various torques on the lateral aspect of the knee. So it's a really neat structure that most clinicians and perhaps runners kind of see as more of an annoyance, but it's a vital part of locomotion. If we didn't have it, we wouldn't run as efficiently.