A Psychophysical Program to Rehabilitate Ankle Sprained Injury and Its Effect on Psychological Variables Among Young Football Players

Abstract

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to design a psychophysical rehabilitation program for young football players with ankle sprain injuries and to evaluate its effects on physical and psychological variables. Ankle sprains are among the most frequent injuries in football, often resulting in impaired mobility, pain, and mental stress.

Materials and Methods. The study used a one-group pre-test and post-test experimental design involving five young male football players from Maysan Governorate, Iraq, who had been clinically diagnosed with ankle sprains. Participants underwent a four-week rehabilitation program consisting of 12 sessions combining therapeutic exercises and psychological support. Data collection tools included muscle strength tests, pain assessments, range of motion measurements, and standardized psychological questionnaires. Statistical analysis was performed using paired sample t-tests through SPSS.

Results. The findings indicated significant improvements in ankle muscle strength, reduction in pain scores, increased joint range of motion, and lower levels of anxiety and depression following the intervention. The psychophysical program effectively enhanced both physical recovery and psychological resilience.

Conclusions. Implementing a structured psychophysical rehabilitation program can significantly aid in the recovery from ankle sprain injuries by addressing both physical and mental health outcomes. This dual-focus approach is recommended for youth athletes returning to sport after injury.