Shoulder First Aid (after a severe accident)
If you have had a fall, or got your arm caught in something and you heard any noises like a pop or a crack, or had a sensation like your shoulder popped out, you should do the following. Firstly, I need you to pause the video and make sure you aren’t experiencing any of the ‘red flags’ below:
** RED FLAGS **
If you are experiencing any of the following please consult a doctor asap or go to the emergency department of your hospital.
- Losing control of your bowel or bladder
- Feeling dizzy or losing balance
- Feeling weak or numb anywhere in your body
- Persistent pins + needles
- Feeling nauseous or vertigo
- Feeling faint
- Have double vision
- Having problems with your speech or swallowing
- Have a fever or night sweats
For more information about ‘red flags’ watch this video (click here).
What you should do is immobilise your shoulder using a sling or a triangular bandage, usually found in a first aid kit. Worst case you can create a sling using a scarf, by placing it under the arm and tying the ends at the top.
You should apply an ice pack, for up to 20 mins every two hours. Just be sure to put something between the ice pack and your skin, such as a towel or an ice pack holder and make sure you check every few minutes for any skin irritation.
Avoid massaging or putting heat on the area and avoid drinking alcohol as all of these may increase any inflammation that may be present.
You should avoid moving your shoulder until you have been assessed by a health professional.
I recommend that you try and see a doctor as soon as possible or go to the emergency department of your hospital, so they can rule out anything serious like a fracture and then guide you to the appropriate health professional for rehabilitation.