- Over use. Engaging in repetitive overhead activities such as swimming, throwing, playing tennis, or pitching
- Age, As we age, the blood supply that allows the tendon to build up and break down decreases. Over the age of 40, this makes the tendon more prone to inflammation (i.e., tendonitis and tear)
- Arthritis. People who develop shoulder arthritis can form bone spurs that can impinge and wear the tendon leading it to tear
- Heavy manual labor jobs and certain sports. Occupations involved include carpentry or house painting and sports include those requiring repetitive overhead activity such as pitchers, quarterbacks, or tennis players