Adjusting to a sport-related condition for former able-bodied elite athletes: A grounded theory investigation

Playing through pain is an expected part of sports culture. It is extremely common, and is done without consideration of the future impact on one's body. The consequences of playing through pain may restrict the former athletes for the remainder of their lives. Formerly able-bodied elite athletes experience challenges as a result of injury and the end of their career, but focus on their gratitude for the experiences and acceptance of how their life turned out. This study examined the adjustment to living with a sport-related condition experienced by previously able-bodied elite athletes. Although there is substantial research on career-ending injury, transition, and adjusting to disability status, the specific process of adjusting to a new identity without sport has been overlooked and warranted research attention. The current study utilized a grounded theory approach to explore the personal experience of athletes as they adjust to life with a sport-related condition. Participants were ten former able-bodied athletes (six females and four males) ranging in age from 25 to 44. All participants had competed at Division I or professional level in a variety of sports. A model is proposed that emphasizes the significance of identity as the core component of the adjustment process. Properties of the injury and their impact on the transition are detailed; the emotional impact of career ending and the importance of support received are explored. The participants had schemas related to their identity as athletes; these schemas included the necessity of pushing one's body to the limit, and the expectation that one's body will be fine. Additionally, the participants held beliefs that the injury and their circumstances happened for a reason and that it was best to accept the situation and move forward with their lives. Findings suggest the eventual attainment of identity integration and acceptance.