Athletic injury is typically an unexpected occurrence. The initial shock of finding oneself on the sidelines instead of participating in practice and competition can be difficult and frustrating.

Physical healing is one half of the recovery process. Managing emotional responses to injury is the other. It is essential that both physical and emotional healing are maximized in order to have the best outcome for the athlete’s recovery.

Susan Zaro has found that injured athletes respond well to the support they receive from other injured athletes. To take advantage of this, she has developed a sport injury program that involves group meetings.

Sport Injury Program:

Minimum of 4 and maximum of 6 athletes per group. Groups are formed based on age, skill level and experience to ensure the highest level of success and cohesiveness.

This program includes:

• A 1-hour individual assessment meeting and 4 one-hour group sessions.

Session I: Introductions

• History of sport involvement.
• History of injuries.
• Knowledge of type and extent of injury.
• Anticipated time frame for recovery.
• Normalizing the loss and feelings of uncertainty that accompany injury and rehabilitation.
• Beginning a recovery success journal.

Session II: Action-Oriented Recovery

• Common psychological responses to injury.
• Common physical responses to injury.
• Image as an athlete. Fitness, social and role identity based on sport participation.
• Support system of athlete. Identifying positive/negative influences in recovery.
• Utilizing peak performance skills for rehabilitation.
• Progressive goal setting plan for re-entry into sport practices/competition.

Session III: Stress Management Skills

• Challenging negative internal dialogue.
• Communication with coaches and significant people in an athlete’s life.
• Overcoming self-doubt/anxiety regarding re-entry into sport.
• Mental rehearsal and reinforcement of athletic skills/competency.
• Lowering anxiety levels through relaxation skills training.

Session IV: Focusing on the Future

• Pain management. Recognizing and responding to normal healing vs. pushing too quickly to regain physical/mental pre-injury level of performance.
• Managing setback. Keeping recovery process in perspective.
• Re-entry into team/individual competition. Realistic goals and expectation.
• Monitoring physical/mental stresses in the recovery environment.
• Ongoing utilization of visualization, relaxation and positive cognitive exercises.
• Group closure.