I'm scared to play after coming back from surgery

[em003]

Hi, I'm Emma, just wanting a bit of advice really.

I had wrist surgery (for a TFCC tear) in July last year, from an injury that I got while playing sport. I took a really decent amount of time off, followed all my instructions from physiotherapists and hand-rehab people, did all my exercises properly and all that jazz. I've been slowly easing my way back into playing, just very casually, since January this year.

I have played for my country for the last 7 years, and trials are starting up for the team in 2010. Physically, I'm fine. I have full functional movement and strength, and am getting close to being fully sport strong as well. My skills have come back pretty well, and I'm starting to get fit again.

My problem is that I'm scared when I play. I still have a good level of confidence in myself as a player, I still believe in myself, but then I get in the water and there's just something that doesn't quite feel right. I hesitate before doing things, I don't go in to tackles like I used to, and I just seem to sit back and watch. Part of it is conscious, but there's a big part that is going on subconsciously as well.

We're a small sport so we don't have a lot of resources in terms of psychologists etc. So basically I'm just looking to see if anyone has been through anything similar?

Sorry for the long post!

[Renewed Myo Therapy]

Hi Emma,

As an athlete who have suffered from soft tissue (muscles, ligaments and tendons) injuries and have endured the long process of rehab and recovery; I feel your pain and understand your hesitation. I also realize that to rehab the muscle that lies between my ears; thus the phrase "Get your head back into the game!"
Mental stability and recovery are just as important as physical recovery; and yes it can be just as debilitating as well.
I would suggest getting evaluated but a physiotherapist this will also boost your mental confidence in your performance. And if possible see some type of sport physco therapist to help you through the mental process. Talk to other athletes who can help you through what I believe is more mental than physical they can give you positive feedback. Or read some book that can help boost your confidences to perform at your optimal level. And to be on the side of caution see a health care professional who can physically evaluate you testing your wrist for stability, strength and endurance to make sure full recovery has happen.

This is my slogan
"A renewed body a renewed mind; a renewed mind a renewed body." Meaning mind and body working together produces optimal performance.

I wish you well in your pursuit to wellness
Ray

[Sophie Hart]

This issue is not more than a psychological issue now. It’s good if you don’t feel any pain in your wrist any more. Take it easy, and try to play without taking stress.