Emphasizing the biopsychosocial dimension in post-traumatic orthopedic recovery

Chronic pain and disability following acute orthopedic trauma are not only physical concerns but also deeply intertwined with psychological well-being. The recent retrospective cohort study by Yang <i>et al</i>, published, provides compelling evidence of significant associations between depression, anxiety, and postoperative recovery. These findings align with an expanding body of literature that confirms the need for orthopedic rehabilitation to adopt a biopsychosocial perspective. This letter contextualizes Yang <i>et al</i>'s study within current evidence, highlighting the roles of sleep disturbance, catastrophizing, stress, neurobiological mechanisms, and coping strategies in shaping recovery. It further emphasizes the importance of integrating nursing-led and multidisciplinary interventions to address both physical and psychological domains, ultimately promoting holistic recovery.