Rotator Cuff Disorders - When To Call a Doctor

When To Call a Doctor

Shoulder pain and weakness may be part of a group of symptoms that indicate a much more serious problem, such as a heart attack. If shoulder pain or weakness occurs with chest pain, shortness of breath, sweating, or nausea, call 911 orother emergency services immediately. For more information, see the topic Chest Pain.

Call your health professional immediately if you have an injury to your shoulder and:

• Your shoulder is very painful.
• Your shoulder appears to be deformed.
• You cannot move your shoulder normally.
• You have signs of damage to the nerves or blood vessels, such as numbness, tingling, a "pins-and-needles" sensation below the injury, or pale, cold, or bluish skin.

If you have had a shoulder problem in the past and you have shoulder pain, call your health professional to find out what you need to do. For more information, see the topic Shoulder Problems and Injuries.

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is a period of time during which you and your health professional observe your symptoms or condition without using medical treatment. A watchful waiting period may vary from a few days to weeks or possibly months. Watchful waiting is not appropriate if:

• Pain in your shoulder is unbearable.
• Your shoulder is deformed.
• You suspect there is nerve damage (loss of feeling) from an injury or vascular damage (pale, cold, or bluish skin).

Most shoulder pain that is not caused by a severe (acute) injury will get better with rest and by avoiding painful movements and positions. Apply ice to your shoulder and take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, which can decrease pain and inflammation. If this relieves the pain in your shoulder, gradually resume your regular activities.

If your shoulder is still painful after 7 to 10 days of home treatment, call your health professional.

Who To See

Health professionals who can diagnose and manage rotator cuff disorders include:

• Primary care health professionals who are familiar with shoulder injuries. These include:
  • Family medicine physicians.
  • Internists.
  • General practitioners.
• Orthopedic surgeons.
• Emergency medicine specialists (for severe symptoms or injury).

For treatment, you may be referred to a specialist, such as:

• A sports medicine specialist.
• An orthopedic surgeon.
• A physical medicine specialist (physiatrist).
• A rheumatologist.
• A physical therapist.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment