Mental Skills Training for Athletes After ACL Reconstruction

(ROAR 3 Trial)

This trial tests whether mental skills training (MST) can help young athletes better cope after ACL (a knee ligament) surgery. The goal is to determine if MST improves psychological readiness and reduces stress, anxiety, and depression as they return to sports. Participants will either receive MST or not, and researchers will monitor their progress through various surveys. This trial suits English-speaking athletes under 25 who have had a complete ACL tear and plan to return to sports after surgery at Boston Children's Hospital. As an unphased trial, this study offers young athletes a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance recovery strategies.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that Mental Skills Coaching, such as the Mental Skills Training (MST) used in this trial, is generally safe for individuals recovering from ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injuries. This support aids recovery without harmful side effects. In studies on MST, participants did not report significant negative effects, indicating the program is well-tolerated. MST assists athletes in mentally coping with their recovery, which is crucial as injuries often lead to stress or anxiety. Overall, MST appears to be a safe method for supporting mental recovery after ACL surgery.¹²³⁴⁵

Researchers are excited about Mental Skills Training (MST) because it focuses on the psychological recovery of athletes after ACL reconstruction, an area often overlooked in traditional rehab programs. Unlike standard treatments that primarily address physical rehabilitation, MST aims to enhance mental resilience, motivation, and focus, which are crucial for athletes returning to high-performance levels. This approach could lead to improved overall recovery outcomes by addressing both the mind and body, offering a more holistic path back to sports.

Research has shown that Mental Skills Training (MST), which participants in this trial may receive, helps athletes manage the stress of returning to sports after ACL surgery. Studies have found that MST boosts coping skills, mental readiness, and a sense of belonging in sports. As a result, athletes feel more prepared and confident when they return to their sport. Additionally, psychological methods like MST effectively lower stress, anxiety, and depression. This training aids athletes in handling the mental challenges of knee surgery and recovery, reducing the chance of setbacks.¹⁶⁷⁸⁹