Progressive Glenohumeral Instability in an Adolescent Ice Hockey Athlete: A Case Report

Abstract

This case follows the injury presentation of a 16-year-old male, right-hand dominant, left-hand shot, Tier I ice hockey player who sustained an initial injury to the left shoulder from a body check during a game. What follows is a cascade of events involving 3 injuries and 2 surgeries, highlighting the complex and potentially compounding nature of instability. Glenohumeral (GH) instability among collision athletes is rare in the absence of contributing genetic conditions or a dislocation or subluxation event. Authors discuss the key concepts related to the diagnosis and management of GH instability, with a special emphasis on subtle injury indicators and an individualized approach to patient care.