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Warning-sign checks

Frozen shoulder: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help for shoulder or arm discomfort with chest pressure, shortness of breath, sweating, nausea, faintness or pain spreading to the jaw or back.

    These symptoms may be related to the heart.

    A visibly deformed shoulder, an open wound, or loss of circulation or feeling after a major injury also requires emergency care.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek urgent medical advice if the shoulder becomes hot, red or markedly swollen, especially with fever or feeling unwell.

    Sudden weakness, persistent numbness or inability to move the arm after an injury also needs prompt assessment.

    These features are not typical of frozen shoulder.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange a routine appointment if shoulder pain or stiffness lasts more than a few weeks, gradually worsens or makes normal activities difficult.

    Seek earlier assessment if you have diabetes, a thyroid condition, a recent injury or recent surgery.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Frozen shoulder. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.