
Understanding that pain is not solely a physical sensation is important information for an athlete. It's possible to experience pain simply by thinking about it.
For instance, I've personally dealt with a previous knee injury that created a negative psychological link between pain and negative emotions. This led to heightened sensitivity to pain and discomfort during high-intensity training due to the fear of reinjury.
This is a point where setbacks can occur because when athletes expect pain, they may become more attuned to any discomfort they feel, even if it isn't directly related to an injury.
This heightened perception of pain can result in decreased performance.
Recognizing that the way individuals perceive pain varies significantly is important. To address psychological factors connected to pain perception, one can consider using approaches such as mindfulness and mental skills training. These strategies can help athletes effectively manage and cope with pain in a healthy manner.
It is advisable to consult a sports therapist for specialised guidance if you experience something similar & if it is physical pain, see your physical therapists !
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