What may lead to psychological issues during an athlete’s recovery?

The pressure to return to play before full recovery can create significant psychological issues for an athlete during the recovery process. Athletes often experience intense stress and anxiety related to their performance, team expectations, and the desire to contribute to their team's success. When they feel rushed or pressured to return, they may worry about reinjuring themselves or not performing at their previous level, which can increase their stress and anxiety levels.

This psychological strain can hinder their overall recovery process, affecting both their mental wellbeing and their physical rehabilitation. Additionally, it might influence their adherence to rehabilitation protocols since the athlete may prioritize returning to play over completing necessary rehabilitation exercises. This can lead to inadequate recovery and a higher likelihood of long-term injury issues, impacting both their mental health and athletic performance.