The Hidden Injury: Behavioral Health's Role in Pediatric Orthopaedic Outcomes-A Systematic Review.
Jessica L Koshinski, Kristen N Reikersdorfer, Emily I Pluhar et al.
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In 30 seconds
This Level III systematic review examined research on psychological and psychiatric factors in orthopaedic conditions and recovery, including pediatric and adolescent athletes undergoing orthopaedic care. The review included 197 articles identified through searches of PubMed, Cochrane, and Ovid MEDLINE. Anterior cruciate ligament injuries, other sports injuries, and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis were commonly studied. Across the literature, injury-related emotional distress was reported, with potential negative implications when psychological needs were not addressed. The authors suggest behavioral health support may benefit high-risk athletes, while noting that study populations and definitions varied.
Key findings
- The review included 197 articles on psychological or psychiatric factors in orthopaedic conditions.
- Commonly studied conditions included anterior cruciate ligament injuries, general sports injuries, and adolescent idiopathic scoliosis.
- Articles described injury-related emotional distress and potential adverse implications when psychological aspects were not managed.
Why it matters
Psychological distress may be relevant to recovery and return to sport, yet it can be overlooked in orthopaedic care. The review highlights the value of recognizing behavioral health needs alongside physical injury, while the varied populations and evidence base mean findings should be interpreted cautiously.
What to keep in mind
The review reports limited studies addressing integrated care pathways. Included populations and definitions varied, and the evidence encompassed clinical and experimental studies.