Shoulder Problems and Injuries
When To See a Doctor
You have answered Yes to:
See significance of inability to move shoulder normally if you need information to help you answer the questions below.
Review health risks that may increase the seriousness of your symptoms.
Call your health professional immediately if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Is your shoulder locked in one position, and you are unable to move it normally?
Yes Do you have severe pain?
Yes Does your shoulder feel loose or unstable, and a lot of swelling has developed within 30 minutes?
Yes After having a shoulder splint applied, are you unable to move your arm normally (not because the splint is in the way)?
Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Does your shoulder feel loose or unstable, but you do not have other symptoms?
Yes Is a young child carefully protecting his or her shoulder or unable to use an arm?
Yes Are you unable to lift your arm above your head after an injury?
You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Do you have shoulder stiffness or decreased movement after 48 hours of home treatment?
Yes Do you have muscle spasms with movement?
You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.
Yes Does your shoulder lock up from time to time, but it is not locked up now?
Yes Has your shoulder felt loose or unstable off and on for a long time, and your symptoms have not been evaluated by a doctor?
If you have answered "No" to the above questions, go back to Check Your Symptoms and continue to answer the questions to evaluate your symptoms.
| Author: | Jan Nissl, RN, BS | Last Updated: September 24, 2007 |
| Medical Review: | William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine | |
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