Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

A chronic injury refers to an injury that develops gradually over time, often resulting from repetitive stress or overexertion. This type of injury is typically characterized by a prolonged course that can lead to persistent pain or dysfunction.

In the context of athletic training and physical activity, chronic injuries often arise when certain movements or activities are performed repeatedly without adequate rest or recovery. Examples include conditions such as tendinitis or stress fractures, which are common among athletes who engage in repetitive loading activities.

In contrast, acute injuries occur suddenly and are typically the result of a specific event or trauma, while overuse injuries, though related, can encompass a range of chronic injuries that develop from repetitive stress. The term "traumatic injury" refers to immediate damage, often involving a specific incident that causes injury. Chronic injury distinctly captures the long-standing nature and gradual onset associated with repetitive stress, making it the most appropriate term in this context.