Shoulder Injury - When to Seek Medical Treatment?

[ittal]

Hi all.

This afternoon, my kids and I were playing and cleaning. I tried to do a bit too much at once, and while in the process of lifting and bending and rotating, I ended up hearing a small 'pop' in my shoulder, which was followed by a short term, searing pain.

Since then, my shoulder has been very painful when I move it outside a certain radius. There is a nearly consistent dull ache (very very dull, barely noticeable) across my collar bone and down to the tips of my fingers. If my shoulder is moved (when I bend down or reach for something) or if I lift something, there is the same searing pain as when it happened. I took two Alieve, and that did nothing for the pain.

Is it possible to have a slight dislocation? Or is it most likely just muscular? In either event, is there a recommended wait time before going to the doctor? Like, if it's not better tomorrow go, or give it a few days?

[mudhound]

My wife gives me the devel over letting it sit for a few days. However, more often then not i'm better in a day or two.
I guess there is not correct way to do this???

[Andrea84]

Hard to say exactly what the injury is - I've had rotator cuff problems and I would say for anything with the shoulder go to an orthopedist who specializes in shoulder injuries. the GP's really don't know much about it. Of course depends on your insurance - sometimes you have to see the GP for a referral. I have the kind at the moment that you have a choice. It might just be muscular but avoid the motion that gives you the searing pain. Probably doesn't make too much of a difference if you wait a day or two but I would call for an appointment now with the orthopedist as sometimes there's a wait for an appointment so the sooner you call the better. The fact that the Aleve is not giving you any relief to me shows that you shouldn't delay - might as well find out what's going on.