What term describes an injury that occurs gradually over time?

A chronic injury refers to a condition that develops gradually over an extended period due to repetitive stress or microtrauma rather than a single, sudden event. This type of injury often arises from ongoing physical activities or overuse, where the body does not have sufficient time to heal between stresses. Examples include tendonitis, stress fractures, or bursitis, which manifest as pain that worsens over time.

In contrast, an acute injury is characterized by a sudden onset of pain or dysfunction due to a specific incident, such as a fall or a direct blow. A traumatic injury involves a clear and identifiable event that causes harm, such as a sprain or fracture, rather than the slow progression seen in chronic injuries. A recurrent injury typically refers to a condition that has occurred before and reappears, often due to improper healing or inadequate recovery. Thus, distinguishing chronic injuries highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing gradual wear and tear on the body to prevent further complications.