Sociocultural Determinants of Sports Injuries: Insights from the Indian Context

Abstract

Sociocultural factors play a crucial role in determining the incidence and management of sports injuries in India. Despite the nation’s growing success in athletics and other sports, Indian athletes—especially from rural and economically disadvantaged backgrounds—often face recurring injuries due to limited access to modern medical care, economic pressures, and deep-rooted traditional beliefs about pain and recovery. Cultural perceptions that glorify endurance and self-sacrifice often prevent athletes from seeking timely treatment. This paper explores how sociocultural determinants such as economic background, gender norms, traditional healing systems, and training culture influence injury patterns, perceptions, and rehabilitation among Indian athletes. It emphasizes the need for integrating indigenous wisdom with contemporary sports science and medical interventions to ensure sustainable athletic performance and well-being (Kumar & Shukla, 2018; Singh et al., 2021).