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Neurology7 papers

Suprascapular nerve injury

Last edited: 4/15/2026

Overview

Suprascapular nerve injury often manifests as entrapment, typically occurring at the suprascapular notch or spinoglenoid notch, leading to shoulder pain and dysfunction 1.

Diagnosis

  • Electrophysiological investigations are crucial for localizing the site of entrapment 1.
  • Clinical presentation includes shoulder weakness, particularly affecting the supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles 1.
  • Management

  • Decompressive surgery via an anterior approach can be effective, minimizing nerve manipulation and enhancing visualization 2.
  • Conservative management may include physical therapy focusing on shoulder stabilization and strengthening exercises 1.
  • Special Populations

  • No specific guidelines provided for pregnancy, pediatrics, elderly, or comorbidities in the given abstracts 12.
  • Key Recommendations

  • Utilize electrophysiological studies for accurate localization of suprascapular nerve entrapment (Evidence: Moderate) 1.
  • Consider anterior approach surgical decompression for refractory cases to improve outcomes (Evidence: Weak) 2.
  • Implement conservative treatment strategies, including physical therapy, as initial management (Evidence: Expert opinion) 1.
  • References

    1 Padua L, LoMonaco M, Padua R, Gregori B, Valente EM, Tonali P. Suprascapular nerve entrapment. Neurophysiological localization in 6 cases. Acta orthopaedica Scandinavica 1996. link 2 Shupeck M, Onofrio BM. An anterior approach for decompression of the suprascapular nerve. Journal of neurosurgery 1990. link

    Original source

    1. [1]
      Suprascapular nerve entrapment. Neurophysiological localization in 6 cases.Padua L, LoMonaco M, Padua R, Gregori B, Valente EM, Tonali P Acta orthopaedica Scandinavica (1996)
    2. [2]
      An anterior approach for decompression of the suprascapular nerve.Shupeck M, Onofrio BM Journal of neurosurgery (1990)

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