Social support and sport injury recovery: An overview of empirical findings and practical implications

Abstract

Epidemiologically-based evidence has demonstrated that a substantial number of athletes and exercisers are injured each year, which can result in physical disability as well as other negative physical, social and psychological consequences. Accumulated research has indicated that the prevalence of sport and physical activity-related injuries varies based on gender, age group, type of sport, level of participation, and role on the team, among other considerations. Although physical causes are the primary contributors to injury, a considerable number of studies have suggested that psychological and social factors also have importance in injury prevention and rehabilitation. Among the psychosocial factors investigated, social support has emerged as a significant buffering and coping resource in the recovery process from athletic injuries. However, research has also indicated that sources of social support tend to be less frequently available to athletes during some stages of rehabilitation and do not necessarily meet the athletes’ expectations and needs. Moreover, some studies have suggested that social support may have detrimental effects under certain circumstances. As such, coaches, athletic trainers and health care professionals should be aware of these complex forms of influence and develop and implement injury rehabilitation processes that are based on a holistic approach in order to promote the athletes’ recovery and well-being.