This continuing education manual provides licensed psychologists and graduate-level clinicians with a comprehensive overview of the psychological aspects of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and rehabilitation. It emphasizes the biopsychosocial framework integrating cognitive, affective, behavioral, and contextual factors influencing recovery over the extended rehabilitation timeline. The manual reviews historical foundations, conceptual models, empirical themes, mental health outcomes, systemic considerations, clinical implications, and future research directions. It intends to equip clinicians with conceptual depth and clinical approaches relevant to interdisciplinary sports medicine teams, focusing on psychological readiness, fear of reinjury, motivational dynamics, and identity disruption throughout the recovery process.

Psychologists Graduate-level Clinicians Sports Psychologists Rehabilitation Clinicians Health Psychologists

Program Objectives

Describe 3 key psychological phases of ACL injury recovery: acute response, rehabilitation, and return-to-activity.

Identify 4 psychological mechanisms influencing ACL rehabilitation outcomes including cognitive, affective, behavioral, and physiological pathways.

Explain 3 common mental health outcomes related to ACL injury rehabilitation, including depression, anxiety, and fear of reinjury.

Develop 2 evidence-informed psychological intervention strategies that support ACL rehabilitation adherence and psychological recovery.