What condition results from the overuse of muscles or joints?

The condition that results from the overuse of muscles or joints is tendinitis. This occurs when the tendons, which are the fibrous tissues connecting muscles to bones, become inflamed due to repetitive stress or overuse. Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as playing sports or performing certain job duties, can lead to micro-tears in the tendon, resulting in pain, swelling, and reduced mobility.

Understanding tendinitis is crucial as it highlights the importance of proper techniques, adequate rest, and preventive measures during physical activities. While fractures are related to breaks in the bone, arthritis involves inflammation of the joints, often due to aging or autoimmune issues. Cramps, on the other hand, are sudden, involuntary muscle contractions that can occur for various reasons, but they are not primarily caused by the overuse of muscles or joints in the same manner as tendinitis. Thus, tendinitis specifically addresses the consequences of overusing soft tissue structures connected to the musculoskeletal system.