What kinds of treatments are available for shoulder injuries?
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. If the tear is not complete, your health care provider may recommend RICE, for rest, ice, compression and elevation. Resting the shoulder is probably the most important part of treatment, although after the pain has eased, you should begin physical therapy to regain shoulder movement. Your doctor may prescribe a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for pain. Additionally, surgery may be indicated. Your doctor can advise you if you are a candidate for arthroscopic surgery or if open surgery is required.