Pain in a shoulder joint is quite common, and has many different causes.  There are many times a doctor will send you home with an anti-inflammatory and tell you to ice or heat your shoulder and rest.  So when do you really need to call your doctor?

• If you are unable to carry something or use your arm
• If you are unable to lift your arm
• If you have a fever along with warmth or redness (This could be a sign of an infection.)
• If your shoulder pain last longer than a few days

Shoulder treatment must be directed at the actual site of the problem and for the specific injury. It may take a couple of appointments with your doctor and/or your physical therapist to determine the exact problem.