It must be the season for shoulder injuries. I injured my right shoulder when I fell on some ice on our deck a few weeks ago. Of course, i went to my weight lifting class a few days later, so I reinjured it. I'm really being careful about carrying too much weight on that shoulder.I'm taking it easy myself as I am recovering from a torn rotator cuff--too much weight lifting. I'm mostly doing hand and arm carry right now, a light shoulder bag is finally ok. I have to be more careful about not overloading my bags.
It's a good idea to hang onto your LC, especially as it has a purpose. I agree that they are becoming more expensive.