Recurrent Shoulder Instability in a Young, Active, Military Population and Its Professional Implications

BACKGROUND: Shoulder instability is a topic of significant interest within the sports medicine literature, particularly regarding recurrence rates and the ideal treatment indications and techniques. Little has been published specifically addressing the occupational implications of symptomatic recurrent shoulder instability. HYPOTHESIS: Previous arthroscopic repair will continue to be a significant predisposing factor for recurrent instability in a young, active population, and that recurrent instability may have a negative effect on college graduation and postgraduate occupational selection. STUDY DESIGN: Case series. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level 4. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective review of approved medical waivers for surgical treatment of anterior shoulder dislocation or instability prior to matriculation at the US Military Academy or the US Naval Academy for the graduating classes of 2010 to 2013. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the incidence and risk factors for recurrence and to determine the impact on graduation rate and occupation selection. RESULTS: Fifty-nine patients were evaluated; 34% developed recurrent anterior instability. Patients with previous arthroscopic repair had a significantly higher incidence of recurrence (38%, P = 0.044). Recurrent shoulder instability did not significantly affect graduation rates or self-selected occupation (P ≥ 0.05). CONCLUSION: There is a significant rate of recurrent shoulder instability after primary surgical repair, particularly among young, active individuals. In addition, arthroscopic repair resulted in a significantly higher recurrence rate compared with open repair in our population. Surgical repair for shoulder instability should not necessarily preclude young individuals from pursuing (or being considered for) occupations that may place them at greater risk of recurrence. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The risk of recurrent instability is greater than the rate typically described, which may suggest that some subpopulations are at greater risk than others. A unique data point regarding instability is the effect on occupation selection.