Babies are delicate individuals, and many parents do all they can to protect them from harm. At some point, though, injuries are unavoidable, even if by accident. A shoulder injury in a young child can be significant if it causes damage to the rotator cuff or ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder. These injuries can lead to bigger problems as your child ages. Whether you witness an injury yourself or are merely noticing possible symptoms, it is important to be thorough in your evaluation of your child's shoulder and be ready to call your doctor in order to minimize any potential lasting damage.
Step 1
Listen to your child's crying. Most babies have distinct types of crying when they are in pain versus when they simply want their mother, need to be fed or need to have their diaper changed. Many shoulder injuries will make the joint painful to use, and your child will express his pain.
Step 2
Examine the location for swelling. If there is damage in the rotator cuff or ball socket, it is likely to cause inflammation and swelling in the tissues around the joint. This will likely also cause redness in the skin. Compare this shoulder to the baby's uninjured shoulder to estimate the amount of swelling.
Step 3
Check the skin for signs of bruising. These could be examples of superficial damage that may be caused by a blunt trauma injury or even during birthing, especially in a larger baby. Bruises will most often appear black or blue, and can accompany swelling.
Step 4
Observe your infant's use of her shoulder to determine whether an injury has forced the child to restrict her use or movement of the joint. If this is accompanied by crying or other visible symptoms, it is very likely your child has a shoulder injury.
Tips and Warnings
- When in doubt, it is best to contact a doctor. Your child's pediatrician will be more knowledgeable about possible injuries and can guide you through an evaluation of your child to determine whether a doctor's in-person examination is necessary.
