Psychological responses to chronic injury and the impact on the rehabilitation process.

Aim: This study aimed to examine the psychological responses to chronic injury, whether experiences differ between individuals with chronic injury as opposed to acute injury and finally explore the experiences into physical and psychological rehabilitation. Participants: 7 participants (5 males, 2 female Age 21 ±1) participated in the study. Method: All participants took part in retrospective semi-structured interviews lasting approximately 20 minutes each, focusing on their injury experiences and perception of their recovery. The interviews were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: Responses suggested both positive and negative emotions as a result of chronic injury. A model was formulated to best represent these responses. Various emotions were reported in response to challenges getting diagnosis, pain and perception of rehabilitation experiences. Athletes noted wanting sports medicine professionals to address psychological impacts of injury during rehabilitation in order to develop relationships. Conclusion: In conclusion, there is not a straight forward response to chronic injury and that athletes experiences will differ. Rehabilitation is affected by positive and negative experiences, with positive experiences linked to more holistic treatment including both psychical and psychological recovery. It is important for sports medicine professionals to recognise, empathise and deal with both physical and psychological recovery to improve rehabilitation