Enhancing athletic injury rehabilitation adherence.

Contemporary sports medicine literature has begun to address more centrally the idea that treatment adherence is a complex issue. Not only must certified athletic trainers (ATCs) possess knowledge about injuries and subsequent rehabilitation protocols, they also must be able to deliver essential services in a manner that predisposes treatment success. Effective treatment of athletic injuries necessitates consideration of various psychosocial factors shown to enhance rehabilitation adherence. Detailed explanations of several important ATC-athlete interaction patterns and motivational strategies are offered.