So frustrated...18 yrs of IT Band Pain

lavenderphoenix

I initially injured my IT band in 1995. I was on crutches for 9 months, had several rounds of anti-inflammatories, 2 cortisone injections, and 2 years of PT. I got to the point that I could walk without a limp and could function but the pain has never gone away. I was active as a kid (gymnastics, diving, etc) but I couldn't even participate in PE after my injury. It's one of the reasons I became obese.

Fast-forward to the beginning of this year when I started exercising and what do you know - my hip is still a giant problem! Some days I can't exercise at all, some days I go for walks and my husband has to come pick me up, some days the pain stays totally manageable. I went to a Dr. to see if he could help me. X-rays showed nothing, MRIs showed nothing, and he gave me another cortisone injection and sent me back to PT. Today was my third session and the therapist told me she's tried everything and she's not helping me and she doesn't see the point in continuing. I'm so upset I could cry. I got my hopes up that I could get some relief and all I get is disappointment. I've found various forums where people discuss IT Band pain and people write "My band has been hurting for 6 months....I can't stand it!". 18 years for me. 18 YEARS. I want so badly to finally get healthy and I'm afraid I'm going to lose my momentum. I don't know what to do. I feel like I would have been better off not going to the doctor at all.

Thank you for reading, I welcome any input.