Integrating Psychological Care in Sports Injury Rehabilitation: A Comprehensive Mini-Review

Abstract

Background: Sports injuries can have significant psychological impacts on athletes, including increased anxiety, depression, isolation, and fear of reinjury. These mental health factors can impede physical rehabilitation. Aim: This mini review synthesizes recent literature on the psychological responses to sports injuries and argues for integrating mental health care into injury rehabilitation. Methods: The review analyzes current research on the psychological impacts of injuries on athletes across various sports and age groups. It focuses on studies highlighting emotional reactions, identity loss, isolation, fear of reinjury, and other psychological distress. Results: Injured athletes commonly experience negative emotional reactions like shock, anger, sadness, irritation, and altered sleep and appetite. They also face increased risks of anxiety, depression, isolation from teammates, loss of identity, fear of reinjury, and low motivation during rehabilitation. These psychological factors can negatively impact adherence to rehabilitation and return to sport. Conclusions: Sports medicine professionals should address mental health alongside physical rehabilitation to optimize outcomes. Recommended psychological strategies include screening, counseling, motivation techniques, goal-setting, social support, and gradual return to sport protocols. A biopsychosocial approach is necessary to properly care for the whole athlete.