La blessure sportive: la place du psychologue du sport dans le réseau de soins

It is now recognized that psychological variables influence the treatment adherence, the athlete’s rehabilitation and return to sport.Among the influencing factors, several elements specific to the athlete and the situation are decisive, but it is above all the attitude and the evaluation of one’s own injury situation that will influence the way in which the athlete will engage in the healing process.The role of the sport psychologist and his or her tools are described through two concrete cases to illustrate two different stages of intervention after an injury occurs: before surgery and during rehabilitation and return to sport.Different techniques are presented (mind-body techniques, mental imagery, mindfulness meditation, goal setting etc.) to illustrate how a sport psychologist works with athletes.Finally, the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration between all health professionals and the athlete’s entourage is emphasized in order to ensure holistic and adequate management of the athlete.