First Aid & Emergencies

Shoulder Separation Treatment

• The injury was caused by a severe blow.
• The person's pulse is weak.

1. Get Medical Help Immediately

• See a doctor or go to a hospital emergency room.

2. Immobilize Shoulder

• Place person's forearm at right angle to chest.

• Apply sling and tie it around neck.

• To bind arm to body, wrap a towel around chest and arm and tie it under opposite arm.

3. Control Pain and Swelling

• Apply ice for 20 minutes. Remove to rewarm skin and reapply.

• Give pain reliever such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) to reduce pain and swelling.

4. Follow Up

• See a doctor if joint pain or swelling continues after 2 or 3 days.