Preparing for an appointment

You're likely to start by seeing your family doctor or a general practitioner. However, if your separated shoulder is severe, you might be referred to a doctor who specializes in bones and joints.

Here's information to help you get ready for your appointment.

What you can do

Make a list of:

• Your symptoms, including any that seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment
• Key personal information, including recent accidents or participation in contact sports
• All medications, vitamins or other supplements you take, including the doses
• Questions to ask your doctor

Take a family member or friend along, if possible, to help you remember the information you're given.

For a separated shoulder, some basic questions to ask your doctor include:

• How severe is my injury?
• Will I need surgery?
• How long before I regain strength in my shoulder?
• Will I be able to return to my sport after I recover?
• What can I do to protect my shoulder from future injuries?
• Do you recommend any particular exercises to strengthen my shoulder?
• Do you have brochures or printed material that I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions.

What to expect from your doctor

Your doctor is likely to ask you several questions, such as:

• How much does your shoulder hurt on a scale of 1 to 10?
• When did your shoulder pain begin?
• Do you have numbness or tingling in your arm or hand?
• Do you know what triggered your symptoms? For instance, have you fallen or participated in contact sports recently?
• Have you injured your shoulder before?
• What, if anything, seems to improve your pain?
• What, if anything, appears to worsen your pain?