Shoulder Problems And Injuries: Check Your Symptoms

Content provided by Healthwise

When to See a Doctor

Do you have snapping, popping, or grating in your shoulder?

See significance of a snapping, popping, or grating 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

Does your shoulder look twisted, bent, or out of its normal position after an injury?

Yes

Are you unable to move your shoulder normally after an injury?

Call your health professional today if you answer "Yes" to any of the following questions.

Yes

Does your shoulder feel loose or unstable after an injury?

Yes

Do you have snapping, popping, or grating in your shoulder after an injury, but there are no changes in its appearance or movement?

Yes

Have you had a lot of swelling within 30 minutes of the injury?

You may wait to see if the symptoms improve over the next 24 hours (or specified time period) if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Have you had snapping, popping, and pain in your shoulder with normal movement for 1 week or longer?

You need an appointment within the next 1 to 2 weeks if you answer "Yes" to the following question.

Yes

Does your shoulder snap or pop during normal movement, but it does not cause pain?

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.

Last updated:	September 24, 2007
Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS
Reviewed By:	William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine, H. Michael O'Connor, MD - Emergency Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Tracy Landauer