Background Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are highly prevalent among physically active individuals. Although patients often undergo successful surgical reconstruction, many experience psychological challenges that influence recovery and return to sport.

Objective This study aimed to assess psychological readiness and injury-related fear among individuals who underwent ACL reconstruction.

Study Design Cross-sectional study

Methods We distributed a structured, self-administered electronic questionnaire to 96 participants in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. We measured psychological readiness using the ACL Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) scale and assessed fear of reinjury using the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia-11 (TSK-11).

Results Participants reported moderate psychological readiness (ACL-RSI: Mean = 47, SD = 18) and kinesiophobia (TSK-11: Mean = 27, SD = 6). Participants over 40 years old demonstrated significantly lower readiness scores and higher levels of kinesiophobia than younger groups.

Conclusion Psychological readiness and injury-related fear are critical components of recovery after ACL reconstruction. Rehabilitation programs should address both physical and psychological dimensions to improve patient outcomes. Future research should explore the effectiveness of targeted psychological interventions in ACL recovery.

The authors have declared no competing interest.

This study did not receive any funding

I confirm all relevant ethical guidelines have been followed, and any necessary IRB and/or ethics committee approvals have been obtained.

Yes

The details of the IRB/oversight body that provided approval or exemption for the research described are given below:

This study was approved by the Institutional Review Board at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University.

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Yes

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tfalqahtaniimamu.edu.sa1, tariqyo9gmail.com2, Moh536hotmail.com3, f.n.m.2000hotmail.com4, Alhejji909gmail.com5, aalrabiah88gmail.com6

All data produced in the present work are contained in the manuscript