Readers ask: Shoulder Separation, When Should I See Orthopedist?

Should I see a doctor for a separated shoulder?

Because the injuries that cause separated shoulders can also cause bone fractures or concussions, you should see a doctor right away to either confirm a separated shoulder or rule out a more serious injury.

When should I see an orthopedic for shoulder pain?

Difficulty sleeping due to pain or discomfort of the affected shoulder. Difficulty or pain when attempting to reach backwards, to raise your arm over your head, or to reach across your body. A snapping, clicking, or popping sound in the shoulder, particularly when lifting or throwing.

When should I see a shoulder specialist?

If you have shoulder pain but no obvious injury, you should see your doctor as soon as possible if the pain is severe or you have trouble moving your shoulder and using your arm, or the sensation to your arm, hand or fingers is abnormal. If you can’t get a same-day appointment, go to an urgent care clinic if possible.

When do you need surgery for separated shoulder?

In severe injuries, ligaments might be torn. In most people, a separated shoulder doesn’t usually require surgery. Instead, conservative treatment — such as rest, ice and pain relievers — is often enough to relieve the pain. Most people regain full shoulder function within a few weeks after having a separated shoulder.

What is the fastest way to heal a separated shoulder?

Therapy

1. Rest. Avoid activities that aggravate your shoulder pain, especially crossing the affected arm in front of your body.
2. Ice. Ice can reduce shoulder pain and swelling.
3. Physical therapy. Stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore strength and motion in your shoulder.

What is the difference between shoulder separation and dislocation?

Shoulder separation is an injury to the ligament between the shoulder blade and collarbone. Whereas shoulder dislocation occurs when the top of the arm bone loses contact with the socket of the shoulder blade.

What can shoulder pain be a sign of?

Causes. The most common cause of shoulder pain occurs when rotator cuff tendons become trapped under the bony area in the shoulder. The tendons become inflamed or damaged. This condition is called rotator cuff tendinitis or bursitis.

Why is my shoulder pain not going away?

If you have pain that won’t go away, it’s time to see a doctor. There are a number of possible causes of shoulder pain, but the most common causes of shoulder pain are rotator cuff injuries, rotator cuff tears and osteoarthritis, says orthopaedic surgeon Mark Schickendantz, MD.

DO orthopedic doctors treat shoulder pain?

Orthopedic Specialists provide expert treatment for acute or chronic pain of the back, neck, spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, foot and ankle.

What part of shoulder hurts during heart attack?

For men: Pain will spread to the left shoulder, down the left arm or up to the chin. For women: Pain can be much more subtle. It may travel to the left or right arm, up to the chin, shoulder blades and upper back — or to abdomen (as nausea and/or indigestion and anxiety).

Why is shoulder pain worse at night?

There are basically three conditions that can cause shoulder pain to worsen at night: bursitis, tendonitis, and rotator cuff injuries. This is because the inflammation involved in each can pull on the shoulder joint, especially when the area is compressed (as when laying on your side in bed).

Is heat or ice better for shoulder pain?

Injured shoulders should be iced for at least 72 hours, or until the swelling has reduced. Tense or tight shoulders can get relief from heat, but be careful not to use heat on any swollen injuries.

Does the bump from a separated shoulder go away?

Most people will get back to normal arm and shoulder function, but a bump in your shoulder may remain. If you have a mild shoulder separation, you may completely recover within a few weeks. More severe injuries may need more time to heal.

How painful is a separated shoulder?

Tenderness or soreness is felt at the junction, or joint, between the collarbone and shoulder. Tenderness is felt at the site of the AC (acromioclavicular) joint. If nerve damage occurs, numbness or muscle weakness may be present in the shoulder or affected arm. If this symptom occurs, seek immediate medical attention.

Is AC joint surgery worth it?

What are the results of AC joint surgery? Most patients get excellent pain relief with this operation, and nearly 95 percent return to their preinjury level of activity and sports. There are few complications and most patients are very satisfied with the result.