Sports injuries are not just physical in nature. ACL injuries, Tommy John, concussions, broken ankles, and other serious sports related injuries have a serious mental and emotional impact on the injured athlete. The initial pain of the injury, fear about missing playing time, finding out surgery is required, losing connection to a team or the sport the athlete loves, doubts about being able to return to play at a high level, fear about losing a valuable contract, loss of identity and fear of re-injury are all significant mental and emotional issues the athlete must address to be truly 100% ready to return to play.
“She went for her beam series today on high beam-stuck 3 out 7. Went for her bars dismount into earlier this week. Is more joyful and talkative- lighter. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen this side of her. I am in awe” Parent of gymnast who broke their leg.