Other Injury Reactions Identity Loss When athletes can no longer participate because of an injury, they may experience a loss of personal identity. That is, an important part of themselves is lost, seriously affecting self-concept.

Other Injury Reactions Fear and Anxiety When injured, athletes can experience high levels of fear and anxiety. They worry whether they will recover, if reinjury will occur, and whether someone will replace them permanently in the lineup. Because the athlete cannot practice and compete, there’s plenty of time for worry.

Other Injury Reactions Lack of Confidence Given the inability to practice and compete and their deteriorated physical status, athletes can lose confidence after an injury. Lowered confidence can result in decreased motivation, inferior performance, or additional injury because the athlete overcompensates.

Other Injury Reactions Performance Decrements Because of the lowered confidence and missed practice time, athletes may experience postinjury performance declines. Many athletes who have difficulty lowering expectations after an injury expect to immediately return to a preinjury level of performance.

Signs of Poor Adjustment to Athletic Injuries Feelings of anger and confusion Obsession with the question of when one can return to play Denial (e.g., “The injury is no big deal”) Repeatedly coming back too soon and experiencing reinjury Exaggerated bragging about accomplishments (continued)

Signs of Poor Adjustment to Athletic Injuries Dwelling on minor physical complaints Guilt about letting the team down Withdrawal from significant others Rapid mood swings Statements indicating that no matter what is done, recovery will not occur

Role of Sport Psychology in Injury Rehabilitation KEYS— A holistic approach is needed, emphasizing the healing of both the mind and body. Psychological factors play an important role in injury recovery (Ievleva & Orlick, 1991). Injury treatment should include psychological techniques to enhance the healing and recovery process. (continued)

Role of Sport Psychology in Injury Rehabilitation KEYS— Using relaxation and imagery during rehabilitation reduces anxiety and was associated with greater knee strength in athletes after knee surgery. Psychological factors (e.g., self-talk, goal setting, self-motivation) also positively affect adherence to injury treatment protocols.

Role of Sport Psychology in Injury Rehabilitation Understand the three-phase process of rehabilitation and recovery: Injury-illness phase Rehabilitation-recovery phase Return to full activity phase