Overview

Chronic, or overuse injuries, develop gradually over time and are often closely linked to poor technique during repetitive movements. Unlike acute injuries, which result from a single traumatic event, chronic injuries occur when tissues are repeatedly stressed without sufficient time to recover or adapt.

In sport and physical activity, technique refers to the way movements are performed. When the technique is inefficient or incorrect, certain joints, muscles, or connective tissues may absorb excessive or uneven loads. Over time, this can lead to microscopic damage, inflammation, and eventually more serious injury. For example:

Poor running technique may lead to shin splints or knee pain.

Faulty posture during weight training can lead to lower back strain.

Incorrect swimming strokes may result in shoulder impingement.

Chronic injuries are common in sports that involve repetitive actions, such as running, cycling, tennis, swimming, and rowing. They often affect tendons, joints, and soft tissues—typical conditions include tendinopathies, stress fractures, and bursitis.

While training volume and recovery are essential contributing factors, technique is often the root cause that determines how force is distributed across the body. Poor alignment, muscle imbalances, and compensatory movements can place undue stress on specific areas, increasing the risk of injury even at moderate training loads.

Preventing chronic injuries involves identifying and correcting technical errors early, through video analysis, coaching feedback, and biomechanical assessment. Strengthening weak areas, improving flexibility, and refining movement patterns are all key components of a long-term injury prevention strategy.

In summary, chronic or overuse injuries often stem from repetitive loading made worse by poor technique. Addressing technical faults not only helps reduce injury risk but also enhances performance, making technique a cornerstone of both safe and practical training.