Table 2: Characteristics of shoulder injury during NBA career.

Number (%)

Any shoulder injury

29/105 (27.6)

Type of shoulder injury*

Labrum Tear

Rotator Cuff Tear

Proximal biceps tendon injury

Acriomioclavicular joint injury

Shoulder dislocation

 

5 (17.2%)

10 (34.5%)

3 (10.3%)

11 (37.9%)

11 (37.9%)

Steroid injections

8 (27.6)

Surgery

Any Surgery

4 (13.7)

Type of Surgery*

Labrum Repair

Rotator Cuff Repair

 

3 (10.3)

1 (3.4)

Outcomes

Games Missed

None

< 5

6-20

21-50

> 51 (entire season)

 

11 (37.9)

9 (31.0)

7 (24.1)

1 (3.5)

1 (3.5)

Returned to play at same level

22 (75.9)

Shoulder pain until retirement

21 (72.4)

Retired because of shoulder

2 (6.9)

Would have played longer if no shoulder pain

13 (44.8)

*Respondents can select more than one response; N = 29 unless otherwise specified.