Suprascapular Neuropathy
Overview
This is a pain or weakness from an irritated nerve in your shoulder. It’s called the “suprascapular” nerve. It travels from the neck down through your shoulder.
Causes
Suprascapular neuropathy is caused by irritation of your nerve. This can happen because it’s stretched or compressed. A poorly-shaped shoulder blade that doesn’t leave enough space for your nerve can cause it. So can a cyst pressing against your nerve.
Symptoms
Symptoms can include pain over the top and back of your shoulder. Your shoulder may feel weak. Some people have shoulder weakness, but they don’t feel any pain.
Treatment
Treatment options may include rest, medications and chiropractic care as well as physical therapy. If these aren’t helpful, you may need more advanced interventions such as suprascapular blocks. Surgery would be the treatment of last resort.
