Suprascapular neuropathy: what does the literature show?

• Published in: Journal of shoulder and elbow surgery Vol. 21; no. 6; pp. 835 - 846
• Main Authors: Moen, Todd C., MD, Babatunde, Oladapo M., MD, Hsu, Stephanie H., MD, Ahmad, Christopher S., MD, Levine, William N., MD
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, NY Mosby, Inc 01.06.2012; Elsevier
• Subjects: Arthroscopy; Atrophy; Biological and medical sciences; Diseases of the osteoarticular system; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Medical sciences; nerve; Nerve Compression Syndromes - pathology; Nerve Compression Syndromes - physiopathology; neuropathy; Orthopedics; Physical Examination; release; repair; rotator cuff; Rotator Cuff - innervation; Rotator Cuff - pathology; Rotator Cuff - physiopathology; Scapula - blood supply; Scapula - innervation; Shoulder - innervation; Shoulder Pain - etiology; Shoulder Pain - physiopathology; Suprascapular; repair; Review Article; rotator cuff; release; Suprascapular; nerve; neuropathy; Nervous system diseases; Rheumatology; Neuropathy
• ISSN: 1058-2746; 1532-6500
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.11.033

Suprascapular neuropathy remains a rare, albeit increasingly recognized, diagnosis. Despite its relatively low prevalence, it must be kept in the shoulder surgeon’s mind as a potential cause of shoulder pain, particularly in patients where the history, physical examination, and imaging studies do not adequately explain a patient’s symptoms or disability. Although challenging to identify, suprascapular neuropathy can be successfully treated. The current literature shows that the location and mechanism of nerve injury are the most important factors guiding management. Different treatment strategies are required, depending on the specific location and type of nerve injury. Controversy regarding if and when to perform an isolated suprascapular nerve release continues. Furthermore, no recommendations regarding suprascapular nerve release in conjunction with rotator cuff repair can be made at this time, and further research is necessary to better delineate the indications in the future.