BACKGROUND: Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is typically associated with and commonly presents as distal knee pain, particularly in athletes. Proximal ITBS is a rare and underrecognized condition, especially in nonobese, nonathletic individuals.

CASE REPORT: We report the case of a 42-year-old woman with complaints of 6 months of progressive lateral hip and thigh pain. Clinical signs included tenderness over the iliac tubercle, and positive flexion, abduction, and external rotation and Ober’s tests. Musculoskeletal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed proximal ITB inflammation and associated greater trochanteric bursitis. Conservative measures offered partial relief; however, the patient was treated with an ultrasound-guided steroid injection and provided complete resolution.

CONCLUSIONS: Proximal ITBS, though rare, should be considered in cases of lateral hip/thigh pain, even in nonathletes. Early imaging and interventional management can significantly improve outcomes and prevent chronicity.

KEYWORDS: Proximal ITBS, lateral thigh pain, steroid injection