Which intrinsic characteristics predispose a patient to overuse injury, regardless of sex?

The correct answer highlights several intrinsic characteristics that have been identified as predisposing factors for overuse injuries. More explosive strength might seem like a benefit in many athletic contexts, but it can also lead to increased stress on the body without adequate support from other physical attributes. Tall stature can contribute to biomechanical discrepancies that increase the risk of overuse injuries, as greater height often correlates with longer lever arms and increased forces through the joints.

Less static strength can be a risk factor because it may mean that the muscles surrounding joints are not adequately able to support the body during repetitive activities, making those joints more susceptible to wear and injury over time. Ligamentous laxity implies that the ligaments are more elastic and less effective at stabilizing joints, which can again lead to instability during movement, thereby increasing the likelihood of injury. A large Q angle, which is the angle between the quadriceps muscle and the patellar tendon, can contribute to knee stresses, especially in activities that involve running and jumping.

These combinations of characteristics can significantly influence how forces are absorbed and transmitted through the body during movement, highlighting the vital link between anatomical and functional alignment issues in the risk for overuse injuries.