what is the best way to stretch one's illiotibial band in order to
improve flexibility -- as quickly as possible?

Hi portolavalley,

As a runner, I've had some issues with our old friend the ITB. :)
There are a number of useful ITB stretches, but for quick and
effective injury prevention, injury relief, and increased flexibility,
I've found one in particular to be most effective. You can view a
photo and description at the following URL:

<http://www.sportmedbc.com/sportmed.php/resources/tip_itb>

I use a modified version of this stretch, with the inside ankle
crossed in front of the outside ankle (it "deepens" the stretch).

For additional stretches, see the following:

Iliotibial band stretch
<http://www.rice.edu/~jenky/sports/itband.html>

The KNEEGuru -- Iliotibial Band Stretch
<http://www.kneeguru.co.uk/html/bandwagon/iliotibial.html>

Iliotibial Stretches
<http://www.howtostretch.com/iliotibi.htm>

I used the following search string to find your answer:

"iliotibial band stretch"

Best of luck!

Emjay-ga

Can I reccomend getting yourself a Cho-pat knee band (
http://www.cho-pat.com/products/product.php?product_type=26 )?  All
I'll say is that I'm a serious runner, have had my fair share of leg
problems, but this has worked AMAZINGLY for actually a few different
related problems.