Rehabilitation Strategies and Pain Management in Athletes with Musculoskeletal Injuries - a review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.12775/JEHS.2026.88.68251

Keywords

rehabilitation, sport, musculoskeletal injuries, physical activity, pain management, exercise, therapy

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND PURPOSE

Musculoskeletal injuries, including ligament ruptures, sprains, partial tears, muscle damage, and fractures, are among the most common injuries observed in athletes. Properly conducted rehabilitation is based on early and appropriate patient mobilization following trauma, aiming to restore mobility and strength of the affected musculoskeletal structures during convalescence. Effective management of post-traumatic pain remains a crucial component of therapy, as pain reduction facilitates early mobilization and return to pre-injury functional status. The aim of this study was to review rehabilitation approaches used after various musculoskeletal injuries sustained during sports activity.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Literature contained in PubMed and BioMed Central databases was searched using keywords such as rehabilitation, sport, musculoskeletal injuries, physical activity, pain management, exercise, therapy. Referenced sources in selected publications and thematic textbooks were also utilized.

CONCLUSIONS

Musculoskeletal injuries may result in significant functional limitations; however, their negative consequences can be effectively minimized through the timely initiation of structured rehabilitation. Exercises should be introduced gradually and adjusted to the injury stage to avoid excessive load on healing tissues. Adequate pain management is essential to support early mobilization and optimize recovery outcomes in athletes.

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Published

2026-02-14

How to Cite

1.
CHOWANIEC-RYBKA, Katarzyna, BUJAK, Monika, SZTAJURA, Jędrzej and SZOT, Anna. Rehabilitation Strategies and Pain Management in Athletes with Musculoskeletal Injuries - a review. Journal of Education, Health and Sport. Online. 14 February 2026. Vol. 88, p. 68251. [Accessed 14 February 2026]. DOI 10.12775/JEHS.2026.88.68251.

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Vol. 88 (2026)

Section

Physical Culture Sciences

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Copyright (c) 2026 Katarzyna Chowaniec-Rybka, Monika Bujak, Jędrzej Sztajura, Anna Szot

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