Psychosocial support in rehabilitation after orthopedic injuries.

Objective: Several studies have shown that psychosocial factors play a significant role in the recovery process after injuries. The aim of this study was to investigate whether psychosocial support would have a beneficial effect on outcome.

Methods: A total of 151 patients with orthopedic injuries were randomized into an intervention group and a control group. The intervention group was offered a psychosocial support program during the early phase of rehabilitation.

Results: One year after the injury, patients in the control group had an excess risk of having psychiatric complaints compared with patients in the intervention group (odds ratio = 2.74). They also reported a poorer quality of life according to Short Formula 36 Health Survey subscores for General Health (odds ratio = 2.3) and Vitality (odds ratio = 2.45). The length of the sick leave period did not differ between the groups.

Conclusion: Psychosocial support during the early phase of rehabilitation after orthopedic injuries may have a beneficial effect on outcome when measured as quality of life.