This study seems to show a relationship between iliotibial band (ITB) syndrome and knee adduction (genu varum) and the activation of the TFL. A relationship can be two incidents that occur together, termed a “coincidence.” Or there can be a causal relationship between them; i.e., one causes the other to occur.
Previous Leg Injury Increases Risk of Other Leg Injuries
Once one joint/structure/tissue is injured, compensation patterns usually occur in which the individual offloads physical stress to other areas of the body. This would logically lead to an increased risk of use/overuse/misuse/abuse to these other areas, likely eventually leading to injury.
Delayed onset of vastus medialis obliquus relative to vastus lateralis
Perhaps the difference in physical activity explains the controversial results regarding Vastus medialis obliquus and Vastus Lateralis engagement.