For the injured athlete, imagery and visualization can provide relief of tension and anxiety. Specifically, a program called systematic desensitization combines imagery rehearsal with relaxation.

The fIrst step in this process is for the athlete to realize that his or her injury must be perceived as a challenge and not as a defeat. It is also important for the athlete to recognize that with time and understanding the injury can be overcome.

The second step in systematic desensitiza tion is for the athlete to   systematically recognize and list all aspects of his or her performance that cause anxiety or tension. For example, if injured during a game, the athlete might list, in order of least to most anxiety-producing:

1. warming up before practice
2. drills
3. scrimmaging in practice
4. warm-up for the game
5. performance in a game

Once these aspects are defmed as they apply to the athlete's situation, the process of desensitization begins. First, the athlete concentrates on the fIrst item. In a relaxed state, the athlete imagines going through the actions required and remains aware of any or all feelings of anxiety during this time. If he or she experiences anxiety or tension, the particular situation is repeated until the athlete can mentally process the activity feeling relaxed and tension-free.

This procedure is repeated for each step of the hierarchy until the athlete is aware of these controlled feelings. After accomplishing the process in a laboratory setting, the athlete then attempts to use these techniques during practice situations.

Emotive imagery has also been used as a coping skill for the injured athlete who is depressed or doubtful about a return to sports and who suffers from a lack of confidence. With emotive imagery , athletes are assisted in recognizing and understanding the range of emotions they experience as a result of their injury. In addition, they are taught techniques that help them cope with their emotions as well as self -enhancing thoughts that will restore their enthusiasm about returning to competition.

Another type of coping imagery is body rehearsal in which the athlete is educated about every aspect of the injury .  Pictures, X-rays, therapy schedules and rehabilitation exercises are all explained in great detail to the athlete who is then instructed to visually imagine the healing process based on a clear understanding of all the principles involved. The primary intent of this process is to expedite healing of the injury .

The rehabilitation of an injured athlete should include both psychological and physical therapy. coaches and athletic trainers cannot assume that when the physical treatment is complete that the athlete is mentally prepared to return to competition.