This article is merely a tool to help you figure out possible causes for your shoulder discomfort. It should not be used in lieu of a visit to your doctor, but will give you some information which will help you determine how urgently you should seek medical advice.

Did your shoulder pain begin with a fall or some other external physical trauma?

YES

If it felt as if your joint 'popped' out of its socket it is possibly DISLOCATED. Even if it rights itself you should still get to the ER to have it checked out by a medical professional.

If the upper arm, collar bone has taken on an unusual / abnormal shape or has a new 'bump' on it you may have a FRACTURE. You need to see a doctor right away.

If there is tenderness near the collar bone which is alleviated by lifting the arm using the opposite hand, you may have SHOULDER SEPARATION. While not a medical emergency you should have your doctor check it out. In the interim use analgesics and a home-made sling to ease the pain.

If your shoulder feels weak, and twisting or throwing actions make the pain worse, you may have a TORN ROTAR CUFF. You need to call your doctor.

NO

Check for an elevated fever, using an accurate thermometer. If you do, and in addition have either swelling or redness in the shoulder area you should seek medical attention urgently, as you could have BURSITIS or an INFECTION.

If you have a fever and in addition have recently suffered from a throat or skin infection, you could have RHEUMATIC FEVER. You need to make an appointment to see your doctor urgently to have this diagnosed and treated.

If your temperature is normal, and you have redness and swelling at the site as well as at other joints, you may have a form of ARTHIRITIS or GOUT. Your doctor can help you with anti-inflammatory medication and advice on managing the symptoms once he has made a definite diagnosis.

If you have no fever, but experience pain with movement but no swelling or redness, try anti-inflammatory medicine. If it does not respond, and persists, have your doctor check for BURSITIS or ROTAR CUFF SYNDROME.

If you have a noticeable increase in stiffness and increasingly limited mobility of the joint you could be experiencing the start of FROZEN SHOULDER. Your doctor will confirm this, treat the symptoms and assist you in preventing it from getting worse.

We hope you find this informative and useful. If in any doubt seek medical attention right away.