During the Overhead Squat assessment, which muscle's overactivity might contribute to the compensation of "knees move inward"?

In the context of the Overhead Squat assessment, the overactivity of the vastus lateralis can significantly contribute to the compensation where the knees move inward, also referred to as dynamic knee valgus. The vastus lateralis is a part of the quadriceps muscle group and is primarily involved in knee extension. When it is overactive, it can exert excessive force on the patella during the squat movement, leading to improper tracking of the knee joint.

Additionally, the vastus lateralis, when overactive, often contributes to an imbalance between the quadriceps, particularly in relation to the medial stabilizers such as the vastus medialis oblique. This imbalance can cause the knees to collapse inward, which is a common compensatory pattern observed during the squat and indicates a lack of proper stabilization and control. Addressing the overactivity in the vastus lateralis is crucial for correcting this compensation and promoting proper movement patterns.