Overuse Injury versus Training Load Error: A Systematic Narrative Review Comparing the Terminology Accuracy

Abstract

Objective: The aim was to determine the research question which addresses the accuracy of the terms Overuse injury & Training load error in sports injuries. Literature Search: Google scholar, Pub Med & AJSM databases were searched from inception to 2nd September 2023. Study Selection Criteria: The studies were included if the participants were athletes regardless of the type of sport & gender. Studies consisting overuse injuries, training load errors & comparison among the two were included. Data Synthesis: The quality of studies was assessed using JBI Critical Appraisal Tool. The level of evidence was defined as strong & of high quality. Results: 2672 studies were identified along with 5 articles from sources other than database search. 14 studies met the inclusion criteria & were added to the review. 11 studies concluded that increased training performance is directly proportional to the increased risk of injury. 3 studies directly call out for our field to replace the term Overuse injury with Training Load Errors. One of the studies specifies by stating that all overuse injuries are training load errors. 5 studies specifies that, even though there are negative effects of training errors, proper training prescription can act as a protective agent against injury. Conclusion: This review emphasizes the field of Sports Sciences to avoid the term Overuse Injury & replace it with Training Load Error.