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Background
The right brachial plexus with its short branches, viewed from anterior view. (Suprascapular labeled at upper left.)
Suprascapular and axillary nerves of right side, seen from posterior view.
- Suprascapular nerve (C5, 6) branches from the superior trunk and innervates the supraspinatus and infraspinatus nerves
- Compression of the nerve in the suprascapular notch (proximal, supraspinatus and infraspinatus affected) or at spinoglenoid ligament (distal, only infraspinatus affected)[1][2]
- Most often seen in athletes due to repetitive overhead arm movements
Causes
- Structural (direct nerve compression)
- Paralabral cyst
- Bone/soft tissue tumor
- Trauma
- Autoimmune
- Iaotrogenic
Clinical Features
Nerve roots that supply sensation to the upper extremities.
- Shoulder pain
- Weakness of shoulder abduction, flexion, and internal rotation
- May see atrophy of supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles
Differential Diagnosis
Median Nerve Syndromes
Ulnar Nerve Syndromes
Radial Nerve Syndromes
Proximal Neuropathies
Other
Evaluation
- Plain films to evaluate for fracture, callus, or bone tumor
- MRI and EMG outpatient
Management
- Nonoperative - activity modification, avoid overhead activities, physical therapy, NSAIDs, sling
- Operative for space occupying lesions
Disposition
- Discharge with orthopedic follow up
See Also
External Links
References