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Contents
  • Athletes and Overhead Activities
  • High-Demand Occupations
  • Age and Anatomical Factors

Who is at Risk for SLAP Tears?

Who is at Risk for SLAP Tears?

Risk Factors Revealed

Not everyone has the same risk of developing a SLAP tear. Let's dive into who is most at risk and why.
Contents
  • Athletes and Overhead Activities
  • High-Demand Occupations
  • Age and Anatomical Factors

Athletes and Overhead Activities

Athletes involved in sports that require repetitive overhead motions, such as baseball, tennis, and volleyball, are at a higher risk for SLAP tears. The constant stress placed on the shoulder joint during these activities can lead to tears over time. Proper training and technique can help reduce this risk.

High-Demand Occupations

Workers in high-demand jobs that involve frequent overhead activities, like construction workers and electricians, are also at increased risk. These jobs place similar stresses on the shoulder as athletic activities, making proper ergonomics and protective measures essential.
A SLAP tear is a shoulder injury involving a tear of the labrum, which is the ring of cartilage that surrounds the socket of the shoulder joint. It is often caused by repetitive overhead activities.

Age and Anatomical Factors

Age and individual anatomical differences can also influence the risk. As people age, the likelihood of degenerative changes in the shoulder increases, which can lead to tears. Additionally, some people may have anatomical variations that predispose them to SLAP tears.

FAQs

Who are most at risk for SLAP tears?

Athletes and workers involved in repetitive overhead activities are most at risk.

Does age affect SLAP tear risk?

Yes, older individuals may face higher risk due to degenerative changes.

Can anatomy influence SLAP tear risk?

Yes, anatomical variations can predispose individuals to SLAP tears.

What can reduce SLAP tear risk?

Proper training, technique, and ergonomics can help reduce risk.

The Bottom Line

Understanding your risk can help in taking preventive measures against SLAP tears.
Discuss your risk factors with Doctronic to learn how to protect your shoulders.
Additional References
  1. Kim TK, Queale WS, Cosgarea AJ, McFarland EG. Clinical features of the different types of SLAP lesions. J Bone Joint Surg Am 2003; 85-A:66.
  2. Bedi A, Allen AA. Superior labral lesions anterior to posterior-evaluation and arthroscopic management. Clin Sports Med 2008; 27:607.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.