Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for a shoulder sprain. This means a ligament in your shoulder tore or got stretched too much.
You probably have shoulder pain, swelling, stiffness, or weakness. You can recover at home.
You might be waiting on test results. The staff will notify you if there are concerning results.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, if needed. Examples include as acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol), ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin), and naproxen (sample brand name: Aleve).
●Rest your shoulder. If the doctor gave you a sling, wear it as instructed.
●Ice can help with pain and swelling. Put a cold gel pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen vegetables on your shoulder every 1 to 2 hours, for 15 minutes each time. Put a thin towel between the ice (or other cold object) and your skin. Use the ice (or other cold object) for at least 6 hours after your injury. It might help to ice longer, even up to 2 days.
●Prop your arm on pillows, keeping your shoulder raised above the level of your heart. This can help with pain and swelling.
●When your shoulder starts to feel better and your regular doctor says it's OK, you can do pendulum exercises. These can help keep your shoulder from getting too stiff. Take off the sling, if you are using one. Let your arm relax and hang down while you sit or stand. Gently move your arm:
•Back and forth at your side
•Side to side across your body
•Around in small circles
You can do this exercise for about 2 or 3 minutes, 1 or 2 times a day.
●Ask your doctor what other exercises to do once the pain and swelling improve. You might need to work with a physical therapist (exercise expert).
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●The pain or swelling gets worse.
●Your fingers get blue, gray, or numb.
●Your shoulder feels unstable or wobbly.
●You cannot use your arm.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Sprains (The Basics)
Patient education: How to use a shoulder sling (The Basics)
