When to Seek Medical Care

When to call the doctor

• In some cases, shoulder pain can be a symptom of other illnesses such as a heart condition. Pain from a rotator cuff problem is worsened with movement. If you have unexplained shoulder pain that is not affected by movement, you should call the doctor.



• If shoulder pain lasts more than two days



• If shoulder problems (pain) do not allow you to work



• If you are unable to reach overhead to get an item in a cabinet above shoulder level, for example



• If you are unable to play a certain sport such as baseball or engage in an activity such as swimming

When to go to the hospital

For any acute injury in which you are unable to move the injured shoulder as well as the uninjured shoulder, seek emergency medical care.