Often what is overlooked in rehabilitation programs is the need to build confidence, address anxiety related to fear of re-injury, not being able to return to sport, or not being able to perform at a pre-injury level. These are all common psychological issues after an ACL injury and discussing and addressing these topics should be a part of the rehabilitation process.
People will often reveal ongoing thoughts like:
“My knee is always in the back of my mind”
“I have changed the way I move and play to reduce the risk of getting injured again”
“I will never be able to perform the same again”
What can I do about these negative thoughts?
Even though these thoughts are common during rehabilitation it is important to note that with building strength, improving technique and gradually increasing sport activity, this will help to build individual confidence and improve sport performance. This should overall help to reduce stress and anxiety with returning to sport again.
There are also many resources and people available and equipped to help you – see our page