What is a shoulder injury?
A person with a shoulder injury has damage to a structure within the shoulder. A shoulder injury may involve the muscles, tendons, bone, or ligaments that support the shoulder joint. Common causes of shoulder injury include falls, sports injuries, occupation injuries and automobile accidents.

What are the symptoms of a shoulder injury?
Symptoms of a shoulder injury include shoulder pain, bruising, swelling, tenderness or stiffness. Additional symptoms of a shoulder injury may include a laceration, arm weakness, arm numbness, or a deformed shoulder.

How does the doctor treat a shoulder injury?
Initial treatment for a shoulder injury may include wound care, rest, a sling, cold compresses, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications, or narcotic pain medications. Additional treatment for a shoulder injury may include physical therapy or surgery.