Overuse Injuries

What Is an Overuse Injury?

An overuse injury damages a part of the body and is typically caused by repeating the same movement again and again. Unlike a sudden injury, such as a fracture from a fall, overuse injuries develop slowly over time.

You may also hear terms like overuse injury definition, overuse syndrome or chronic injuries. These all describe conditions caused by repeated stress without enough time for the body to recover.

Overuse injuries can affect:

• Muscles
• Tendons (the tissues that connect muscle to bone)
• Bones
• Ligaments
• Joints
  
  

They are especially common in sports that involve running, jumping, throwing or repetitive motion. However, they can also occur in workers who perform the same task daily, such as typing, lifting or using tools.

Understanding what an overuse injury is can help you recognize symptoms early and prevent more serious problems from developing over time.

What Causes Overuse Injuries?

Overuse injuries develop when the body does not have enough time to heal between periods of activity. Small amounts of stress from impact build up and eventually lead to pain and inflammation.

Common causes include:

• Repeating the same movement frequently
• Increasing training intensity too quickly
• Poor technique or improper form
• Wearing worn-out or improper footwear
• Muscle weakness or tightness
• Skipping rest days
• Playing one sport year-round without breaks
  
  

Children and teens may be at a higher risk during growth spurts, since their bones are growing at a faster rate than their muscles and tendons, which can increase tension. Adults returning to exercise after a long break may also be more likely to develop symptoms if they increase activity too quickly.

Overuse Injury Symptoms

Overuse injury symptoms usually begin gradually. Initially, the discomfort may only appear during activity. Over time, the pain may last longer or occur even at rest.

Common symptoms of overuse injury include:

• Dull or aching pain in a muscle or joint
• Swelling
• Tenderness to the touch
• Stiffness
• Weakness
• Decreased performance
• Pain that worsens with repeated movement
  
  

If pain lasts more than a few days, returns every time you exercise or interferes with daily activities, it is important to seek medical evaluation from a sports medicine specialist.

How Are Overuse Injuries Diagnosed?

A sports medicine or orthopedic specialist will begin with a detailed history and physical exam.

Your provider may:

• Ask about your activity level and recent changes in training
• Review your symptoms and when they started
• Examine the painful area for swelling, tenderness and range of motion
• Evaluate strength, flexibility and movement patterns
  
  

In some cases, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI scans may be ordered to rule out stress fractures or other conditions.

Most overuse injuries are diagnosed based on your history and physical exam. Early diagnosis is important to prevent more serious or long-term damage, so it’s best not to wait to seek care.

Overuse Injury Treatment

Non-Surgical Treatment

Most overuse injuries improve without surgery. Treatment may include:

• Rest or temporary reduction in activity
• Ice to decrease pain and swelling
• Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, if recommended
• Physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility
• Bracing or supportive devices when needed
• Correcting sports technique or movement patterns
• Gradually returning to activity with a structured plan
  
  

Activity modification does not always mean stopping completely. In many cases, switching to lower-impact exercise while healing can help maintain fitness.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is rarely needed for overuse injuries. It may be considered only if symptoms persist after months of conservative care or if there is significant structural damage. Talk with your sports medicine or orthopedic specialist for personalized care to treat your individual injury.

How to Prevent Overuse Injuries

While not all injuries can be avoided, there are effective ways to reduce your risk and prevent overuse injuries.

Prevention strategies include:

• Increasing activity gradually
• Following the “10% Rule” of increasing training by no more than 10% per week
• Taking regular rest days
• Cross-training to avoid repetitive stress
• Stretching tight muscles
• Strengthening weak muscle groups
• Wearing proper footwear and replacing worn shoes
• Listening to early warning signs of pain
  
  

Athletes, parents and coaches should take repeated pain seriously. Pushing through symptoms can lead to more severe injury and longer recovery time.

Overuse injuries are common but treatable. Recognizing symptoms of overuse injury early and addressing them quickly can prevent long-term problems.

If you are experiencing ongoing joint or muscle pain, swelling or repeated injuries, our sports medicine and orthopedic specialists are here to help. We provide comprehensive evaluation, personalized treatment plans and guidance to help you safely return to the activities you enjoy while protecting your long-term health.

If you’re wondering where the best place is to get care, please see our guide below:

If your problem is life- or limb-threatening, call 911 or go to the emergency room.

Sports Medicine Hotline – Call 757-534-6767, 7am-10pm, 7 days a week to schedule an appointment with a sports medicine specialist. Same day/next day availability in most cases.

OrthoConnect Orthopedic Urgent Care – Walk-in clinic at our Newport News location only on Tues-Thurs. 7am-2pm or schedule an appointment through MyChart for the location and time that is convenient for you.

Orthopedic Specialists - Schedule through MyChart or call 757-534-9988.
(804-693-0529 for Gloucester, 757-302-2700 for the Eastern Shore)