PSYCHOLOGICAL IMPACT OF INJURY

Emotional responses and temporary loss of identity

Injury constitutes one of the most significant obstacles in an athlete's career, triggering a cascade of reactions that go far beyond tissue damage.

Psychologically, the athlete is faced with an abrupt interruption of his or her routine, which generates frustration, fear and a sense of isolation from the training group.

This situation can lead to a temporary identity crisis: the individual, who defines himself by his physical ability and role in the field, suddenly wonders "who am I" if he cannot compete.

A clear example is that of a female sprinter who suffers a fibre rupture before a major competition.

Suddenly, she goes from being the center of attention on the track to a spectator in the stands.

This forced transition can lead to secondary "psychological injuries" such as recovery anxiety overtraining syndrome, eating disorders or substance abuse, stemming from the inability to manage the emotional and social cost of being away from her passion and profession.

Psychophysiological risk mechanisms (stress and muscle tension).

There is a bidirectional relationship between stress and physical injury. The stress response induces physiological changes, such as an increase in generalized muscle tension and simultaneous contraction of agonist and antagonist muscles (muscle guarding).

This reduces flexibility and motor coordination, predisposing the body to tears or sprains when attempting to execute explosive movements with compromised mechanics.

In addition, stress causes a narrowing of the visual field ("tunnel vision") and increased distractibility.

Imagine a basketball point guard who is preoccupied with a contract dispute.

Because of his stress, his peripheral vision is reduced, preventing him from noticing an approaching defender on his blind side.

As a result, he receives an unexpected impact for which his body was unprepared, resulting in injury.

Inattention to environmental cues, a product of psychological burden, is a direct precursor to the physical accid