Shoulder instability in lacrosse players

Introduction: Lacrosse has become an increasingly popular sport in recent decades with more players competing at the high school and collegiate levels. Along with the rise in popularity, lacrosse has also seen an increase in and evolution of common injuries experienced by players. Specifically, the incidence of shoulder instability episodes in lacrosse players has continued to increase over the years leading to a progressive focus in further understanding shoulder injuries in lacrosse. Objectives: Despite this recent focus, there remains a lack of substantial data regarding shoulder instability as it relates to lacrosse. Therefore, the objective of this study was to conduct an extensive literature review and provided an overview of many of the most recent concepts discussed surrounding shoulder instability in lacrosse players. Methods: Pubmed and Scopus databases were reviewed for relevant literature pertaining to the diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of contact athletes with shoulder instability. Conclusion: Lacrosse players are at risk for shoulder instability due to the nature of the game. The biomechanics and contact aspect of the sport place a unique stress on the shoulder. Thus, there is an appropriate emphasis on how clinicians understand, diagnose, and treat shoulder instability in lacrosse players. This rise in popularity means every clinician involved in the treatment of athletes should be proficient in performing physical exam components specific to shoulder instability, develop their own treatment approach, and understand commonly used test batteries for determining an athlete…s return to sport.