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सुपरस्केप्युलर न्यूरोपैथी

Updated Sep 2026
कंधे की मांसपेशियों को आपूर्ति करने के लिए नाक के माध्यम से गुजरने वाली सुपरस्केप्युलर तंत्रिका का आरेख।
सुपरस्केप्युलर तंत्रिका, जिसे कंधे के ब्लेड के स्थान पर संकुचित किया जा सकता है। Kieran Hirpara 4.0

यह पृष्ठ मशीन द्वारा अनूदित है और अभी तक किसी चिकित्सक द्वारा जाँचा नहीं गया है। अंग्रेज़ी संस्करण ही आधिकारिक है।

आप क्या महसूस कर रहे हैं

सुपरस्केप्युलर न्यूरोपैथी का अर्थ है कि आपकी दो कंधे की मांसपेशियों की आपूर्ति करने वाली तंत्रिका को जलन या निचोड़ा गया है। दर्द आमतौर पर कंधे के पीछे, कंधे के ब्लेड के बाहरी किनारे की ओर होता है। कई लोग इसे एक जगह पर तेज दर्द की बजाय पूरे कंधे पर फैला हुआ एक सुस्त दर्द बताते हैं।

दर्द अक्सर धीरे-धीरे बढ़ता है, और यह एक क्षेत्र में बैठने की प्रवृत्ति रखता है: मुख्य कंधे के जोड़ के ऊपर और पीछे लगभग एक हाथ की चौड़ाई। ओवरहेड गतिविधि एक सामान्य ट्रिगर है, इसलिए फेंकना, सेवा करना, या एक उच्च शेल्फ तक पहुंचना लक्षणों को ला सकता है या उन्हें बदतर बना सकता है। कुछ लोगों को दर्द के साथ-साथ कंधे पर क्लिक, पकड़ या लॉक लगने का भी एहसास होता है।

यदि तंत्रिका लंबे समय तक चिड़चिड़ा रही है, तो वह जो मांसपेशियों की आपूर्ति करती है, वे नष्ट हो सकती हैं। आप अपने कंधे के पीछे, कंधे के ब्लेड की रीढ़ के ऊपर या नीचे एक खोखले या सपाट रूप को देख सकते हैं। यह हर किसी के साथ नहीं होता है, और यह इस बात पर निर्भर करता है कि तंत्रिकाएं आपके शरीर में उन मांसपेशियों के लिए शाखाएं कैसे करती हैं।

दिन-प्रतिदिन, कमजोरी और दर्द उन कार्यों में दिखाई देते हैं जिन्हें अपने हाथ को ऊपर उठाने या बाहर निकालने की आवश्यकता होती है। एक ऊंची शेल्फ पर एक भारी कटोरा तक पहुंचना, कपड़े लटकाना, या अपने सिर पर एक जंपर खींचना पहले की तुलना में कठिन महसूस कर सकता है। स्पोर्ट्स जो ओवरहेड मूवमेंट को शामिल करते हैं अक्सर पहली चीज बन जाती है जिसे आप नोटिस करते हैं।

कंधे के ब्लेड के पास दो संकीर्ण मार्गों में से एक में तंत्रिका को दबाया जा सकता है, और वहां दबाव उन लोगों में आम है जो बहुत अधिक ओवरहेड खेल करते हैं। इस तंत्रिका को बार-बार ओवरहेड गतिविधि से भी खिंचाया जा सकता है, या चोट के बाद चिड़चिड़ा हो सकता है। कभी-कभी कोई स्पष्ट कारण नहीं होता है, और तंत्रिका बस अपने आप ठीक से काम करना बंद कर देती है।

यदि इनमें से कुछ भी परिचित लगता है, तो यह आपके कंधे का आकलन करने के लायक है ताकि कारण को पिन किया जा सके।

वास्तव में क्या हो रहा है

सुपरस्केप्युलर तंत्रिका एक बड़े तंत्रिका नेटवर्क की एक शाखा है जो आपकी गर्दन से लेकर आपके कंधे तक जाती है। यह आपके कंधे के पीछे की दो मांसपेशियों को संचालित करता है जो आपके हाथ को उठाते और घुमाते हैं। वहां पहुंचने के लिए, तंत्रिका को कंधे के ब्लेड के पास दो संकीर्ण छेदों से गुजरना पड़ता है, जैसे कि हड्डी में तंग नाखूनों के माध्यम से एक केबल।

इनमें से प्रत्येक अंतराल पर, ऊतक की एक छोटी पट्टी तंत्रिका के ऊपर से गुजरती है। तंत्रिका नीचे से गुजरती है जबकि एक रक्त वाहिका ऊपर से गुजरती है। यदि पहली दरार पर तंत्रिका संकुचित हो जाती है, तो दोनों कंधे की मांसपेशियां प्रभावित होती हैं। यदि यह दूसरे पर निचोड़ा जाता है, आगे, केवल एक है। कंधे के अस्तर में आंसू से भरा एक तरल पदार्थ भी तंत्रिका पर उसके रास्ते में कहीं भी दबाव डाल सकता है।

दबाव ही एकमात्र समस्या नहीं है। इस तंत्रिका को भी खिंचाया जा सकता है, जो वर्षों के ओवरहेड खेल के साथ होता है या जब कंधे पर एक बड़ी नस की दरार चीजों को लाइन से बाहर खींचती है। कुछ लोगों में संकुचन या खिंचाव बिल्कुल नहीं होता है, और तंत्रिका केवल सूजन होती है। यह महत्वपूर्ण है क्योंकि कई लोगों को लगता है कि एक संकीर्ण अंतराल पर समस्या है वास्तव में अधिक व्यापक तंत्रिका जलन के संकेत दिखाते हैं, जो बदलता है कि यह कैसे मूल्यांकन और इलाज किया जाता है।

जो लक्षण आपने ऊपर पढ़े हैं, वे सीधे इसके परिणाम हैं। जब तंत्रिका अपने संकेतों को अच्छी तरह से नहीं ले जा सकती है, तो दोनों मांसपेशियां कमजोर हो जाती हैं और समय के साथ, वे नष्ट हो सकती हैं। कंधे के पीछे का दर्द स्वयं तंत्रिका के चिड़चिड़े होने से होता है।

हम इसके बारे में क्या कर सकते हैं

मैटर प्राइवेट हॉस्पिटल रॉकहैम्पटन में ऊपरी अंगों के सर्जन डॉ. किरण हिरपारा, आपकी स्थिति के अनुरूप कम से कम आक्रामक विकल्पों से शुरू करते हैं। मरीजों को आम तौर पर उनके जीपी द्वारा हमारे क्लिनिक में भेजा जाता है; यदि एक फिजियोथेरेपिस्ट ने सुझाव दिया है कि आप हमें देखें, तो आपको मेडिकेयर छूट के लिए पात्र होने के लिए अपने जीपी से एक रेफरल की आवश्यकता होगी। आपकी पहली यात्रा पर हम एक इतिहास लेते हैं, आपके कंधे की जांच करते हैं, और स्कैन की व्यवस्था करते हैं यदि उन्हें कारण की पुष्टि करने की आवश्यकता होती है।

पहला कदम आमतौर पर आराम और आपके कंधे के उपयोग के तरीके में बदलाव है। ऊपरी गतिविधि में कटौती करने से तंत्रिका पर दबाव कम हो जाता है। विरोधी भड़काऊ दवा दर्द को शांत कर सकती है जबकि चीजें ठीक हो जाती हैं। फिजियोथेरेपी का उद्देश्य आपके कंधे की सामान्य गति बनाए रखना और आपके कंधे के चारों ओर की मांसपेशियों को मजबूत करना है। आपका फिजियोथेरेपिस्ट आपको उन अभ्यासों के माध्यम से मार्गदर्शन करेगा जो कंधे के ब्लेड को स्थिर करते हैं और उन मांसपेशियों का निर्माण करते हैं जो इसे नियंत्रित करते हैं। हम आम तौर पर इस दृष्टिकोण को किसी भी आगे की बात करने से पहले एक निष्पक्ष परीक्षण देते हैं। यदि तंत्रिका किसी चींटी की तरह संकुचित हो रही है, या आपके कंधे के पीछे की मांसपेशी पहले से ही नष्ट होने लगी है, हम इस चरण को छोटा रखते हैं, 3 महीने से अधिक नहीं, इसलिए मांसपेशी अच्छी तरह से क्षतिग्रस्त नहीं होती है।

यदि ये उपाय आपके दर्द या कमजोरी को दूर नहीं करते हैं, तो सर्जरी पर विचार किया जा सकता है। इस ऑपरेशन को तंत्रिका अवशोषण कहा जाता है। यह तंत्रिका को मुक्त करता है जहां यह आपके कंधे के ब्लेड के पास एक संकीर्ण अंतराल में दबा हुआ है। यह ज्यादातर मामलों में कीहोल सर्जरी के माध्यम से किया जाता है, और आपके कंधे के अंदर किसी भी अन्य समस्याओं को एक ही समय में देखा और इलाज किया जा सकता है।

क्या उम्मीद करें

अधिकांश लोगों के लिए, यह स्थिति अपने आप नहीं जाती है यदि तंत्रिका संकुचित रहती है। यदि तंत्रिका पर कोई दबाव नहीं है, तो पहला कदम सर्जरी के बिना उपचार हैः फिजियोथेरेपी, विरोधी भड़काऊ दवा, और आपके कंधे के उपयोग को बदलना। बहुत से लोग इस दृष्टिकोण से संतोष करते हैं। यदि सिस्ट जैसी कोई चीज तंत्रिका को दबा रही है, या आपका दर्द और कमजोरी लगातार बढ़ रही है, तो तंत्रिका को मुक्त करने के लिए सर्जरी पर विचार किया जाता है।

वसूली इस बात पर निर्भर करती है कि तंत्रिका कितनी देर तक चिड़चिड़ा रही है। यदि मांसपेशियां नष्ट नहीं हुई हैं, तो तंत्रिका को मुक्त करने से अक्सर दर्द कम हो जाता है और कंधे की सामान्य कार्यक्षमता वापस आ जाती है। यदि मांसपेशियां पहले से ही बर्बाद हो गई हैं, तो उस परिवर्तन में से कुछ पूरी तरह से उलट नहीं हो सकता है, हालांकि ताकत और आराम अभी भी सुधार हो सकता है। तंत्रिका को मुक्त करने के लिए कीहोल सर्जरी ने दर्द से राहत दी है, परीक्षण पर बेहतर मांसपेशियों के संकेत दिए हैं, और जो लोग इसे करते हैं उनमें बेहतर कंधे का कार्य होता है। इस प्रकार की सर्जरी के बाद दीर्घकालिक दृष्टिकोण उत्साहजनक प्रतीत होता है, और बाद में फिजियोथेरेपी आपके कंधे को कमजोर होने से बचाते हुए अच्छी तरह से काम करने में मदद करती है।

यदि आपके कंधे पर भी एक बड़ी नस फट गई है, तो तस्वीर अलग है। कंधे की मरम्मत कभी-कभी तंत्रिका को अपने आप ठीक होने देती है। इस मरम्मत के लिए एक तंत्रिका रिलीज़ को जोड़ना परिणामों में सुधार करने के लिए नहीं दिखाया गया है, और यह बेहतर के बजाय तंत्रिका कार्य को बदतर बनाने का एक छोटा सा जोखिम रखता है। आपका सर्जन इसे ध्यान से आपके साथ तौलेगा।

कुछ ईमानदार सावधानियां। तंत्रिका रक्त वाहिकाओं के निकट संकीर्ण अंतराल पर चलती है जहां यह मुक्त हो जाती है, और वहां रक्तस्राव एक ज्ञात जोखिम है जो आपके सर्जन से बचने के लिए काम करता है। उन लोगों की एक छोटी संख्या में जिन्हें खुली कटाई के माध्यम से तंत्रिका मुक्त कर दी गई थी, कुछ वर्षों बाद एक और सर्जरी की आवश्यकता थी। और यदि तंत्रिका एक टेंडन आंसू के लिए एक ऑपरेशन से पहले परीक्षण पर सामान्य दिखती है, तो इसे जारी करने से कोई लाभ नहीं होता है।

यह सब आपके व्यक्तिगत परिणाम के बारे में कोई वादा नहीं है। यह एक यथार्थवादी तस्वीर है कि क्या होता है, इसलिए आप स्पष्ट अपेक्षाओं के साथ काम, खेल और दैनिक जीवन के आसपास योजना बना सकते हैं।

किसी से कब मिलना है

यदि आपके कंधे के पीछे कुछ हफ्तों से अधिक समय तक दर्द रहता है, खासकर यदि आप बहुत अधिक खेल या काम करते हैं, तो अपने चिकित्सक से मिलें। यदि आपके हाथ को ऊपर या बाहर उठाते समय दर्द कमजोरी के साथ आता है, या यदि आप अपने कंधे के पीछे की मांसपेशियों को खोखला या समतल दिखते हैं, तो एक विशेषज्ञ की समीक्षा के लिए पूछें। यह भी पूछें कि क्या आपका कंधा दर्द के साथ-साथ क्लिक, कैच या लॉक हो जाता है, या यदि जोड़ के ऊपर और पीछे एक हाथ की चौड़ाई का स्थान दबाए जाने के लिए संवेदनशील है। ये संकेत संकेत देते हैं कि तंत्रिका संकुचित या चिड़चिड़ा हो रही है, और जितनी जल्दी इसकी जांच की जाती है, उतनी ही बेहतर संभावना होती है कि उन मांसपेशियों को नष्ट होने से पहले संरक्षित किया जा सके।

अधिक गहराई से

यह अनुभाग आपके स्वयं के उपचार निर्णयों के लिए आवश्यक से अधिक है। सुपरस्केप्युलर न्यूरोपैथी अतिरिक्त पढ़ने के लायक है क्योंकि एक ही तंत्रिका दो अलग-अलग भूमिकाओं में दिखाई देती है, कंधे के दर्द और कमजोरी के कारण के रूप में, और दर्द से राहत के लिए एक लक्ष्य के रूप में, और दोनों के लिए सबूत गुणवत्ता में बहुत अलग है।

विघटन कार्य, श्रेय के बारे में एक चेतावनी के साथ

जहां तंत्रिका संकुचित होती है, उसे मुक्त करना प्रभावी होता है। पार करना 730 रोगियों, suprascapular तंत्रिका अवशोषण रोगियों द्वारा रिपोर्ट किए गए परिणामों में काफी सुधार करता है, है बिना डिकम्प्रेशन के किए गए समान प्रक्रियाओं से नीच नहीं, और साथ जुड़ा हुआ है खेल में वापसी की उच्च दर और प्रतिकूल घटनाओं की अपेक्षाकृत कम दर [1].

वहाँ काम करने वाले वाक्यांश "विघटन के बिना इसी तरह की प्रक्रियाओं के लिए नीच नहीं है". किसी अन्य कारण से किए गए ऑपरेशन, कफ की मरम्मत, या कंधे के ब्लेड पर एक गैंग्लियन को हटाने के दौरान तंत्रिका को अक्सर जारी किया जाता है, इसलिए अवशोषण के लिए सुधार को जिम्मेदार ठहराना मुश्किल है। यह मदद करता है, और यह साथ की प्रक्रिया को बदतर नहीं बनाता है।

संपीड़न का स्तर चित्र को क्यों बदलता है

स्नायु दो संकीर्ण बिंदुओं के माध्यम से गुजरता है क्योंकि यह कंधे के ब्लेड के चारों ओर लपेटता है, और जो एक शामिल है वह प्रस्तुति को निर्धारित करता है।

संपीड़न पर स्प्रैस्केप्युलर नॉच, ऊपरी, दोनों सुपरस्पाइनाटस और इन्फ्रास्पाइनाटस को प्रभावित करता है, दर्द के साथ उठाने और बाहरी रोटेशन में कमजोरी पैदा करता है। संपीड़न पर स्पाइनोग्लेनॉयड नाच, आगे, केवल इन्फ्रास्पिनटस को प्रभावित करता है, जिससे बाहरी रोटेशन की कमजोरी और कंधे के ब्लेड की रीढ़ की हड्डी के नीचे खोखले में दिखाई देने वाला नुकसान होता है, अक्सर थोड़ा दर्द के साथ।

पृथक-व्यर्थ प्रस्तुति वह है जो चूक जाती है, क्योंकि यह ज्यादा दर्द नहीं करती है। उस स्तर पर सबसे आम कारण एक लैब्रल आंसू से उत्पन्न गैंग्लियन सिस्ट है, जिसका अर्थ है कि इस पैटर्न को खोजने से सिस्ट और इसके पीछे के आंसू की खोज होनी चाहिए, क्योंकि कारण का इलाज तंत्रिका को संबोधित करता है।

एक दर्द ब्लॉकर के रूप में, इसके उपयोग के संकेतों की तुलना में सबूत पतले हैं

शल्यचिकित्सा के बाद और पुरानी स्थितियों दोनों में कंधे के दर्द के लिए स्थानीय संज्ञाहरण के साथ एक ही तंत्रिका को व्यापक रूप से अवरुद्ध किया जाता है। शारीरिक हानि की समीक्षा करना 4,142 रोगियों, ब्लॉक शारीरिक हानि का कम जोखिम होता है, लेकिन लेखकों नोट हस्तक्षेप में विषमता और निम्न गुणवत्ता के साक्ष्य, और नुकसान के बेहतर आकलन और रिपोर्टिंग का आह्वान [2].

"कम गुणवत्ता वाले साक्ष्य पर नुकसान का कम जोखिम" एक विशिष्ट और सीमित दावा है। यह ब्लॉक को उचित रूप से सुरक्षित होने का समर्थन करता है; यह इस बारे में एक बयान नहीं है कि यह कितनी अच्छी तरह से काम करता है, और इसे एक के रूप में नहीं पढ़ा जाना चाहिए।

वह भेद जो साथ ले जाने लायक है

इस तंत्रिका के नाम से दो चीजें जुड़ी हुई हैं और उन्हें मिलाया नहीं जाना चाहिए। एक न्यूरोपैथी एक संरचनात्मक समस्या है जहां तंत्रिका संकुचित होती है और अक्सर अवशोषित की जा सकती है, इसके हस्ताक्षर के रूप में क्षय और कमजोरी के साथ। एक तंत्रिका अवरोध एक लक्षणात्मक उपचार है जो जोड़ से दर्द संकेतों को बाधित करता है और संरचनात्मक रूप से कुछ भी नहीं बदलता है।

कमजोरी और दृश्यमान अपव्यय बिंदु के लिए पहले. अकेले दर्द, इन निष्कर्षों के बिना, आमतौर पर कहीं और इंगित करता है, और एक ब्लॉक जो इसे राहत देता है एक निदान की पुष्टि करने के बजाय दर्द निवारक प्रदान कर रहा है।

संदर्भ

[1] सैंडलर एबी, वेल्स एमई, ट्रैन सी, अराकावा आर, क्लैस केजे, स्कैनलियाटो जेपी, एट अल। सुपरस्केप्युलर तंत्रिका अवशोषण के बाद खेल में वापसी की उच्च दरः एक व्यवस्थित समीक्षा। जेएसईएस रेव रिप टेक 2024;4(4):654-61। https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xrrt.2024.05.007

[2] एनीसन डीआर, स्मिथ एन, साल्ट ई, नोबलेट टी, रंगन ए, मैकडेड सी। सुपरस्केप्युलर तंत्रिका अवरुद्ध हस्तक्षेपों से जुड़े शारीरिक नुकसान: एक व्यवस्थित समीक्षा। कंधा कोहनी. 2024;17(3):236-53. https://doi.org/10.1177/17585732241255679


Evidence & references

This is the clinical evidence summary written for health professionals. It is technical, and it lists the research this page was built from. You do not need to read it to understand your treatment or to make a decision about it.

Overview

  • The exact association and etiology of suprascapular neuropathy in patients with rotator cuff pathology remain unclear [1].
  • Shoulder surgeons should consider electrophysiologic evaluation of patients with clinical or radiographic signs of suprascapular neuropathy [2].
  • Shoulder surgeons should be cognizant of the parameters that constitute an abnormal electrophysiologic study for suprascapular neuropathy [2].
  • Suprascapular neuropathy has been described with complete neurogenic fatty replacement in patients with intact rotator cuff tendons in the absence of traction or compression mechanisms [3].
  • Preoperative suprascapular nerve injuries do not have a significant clinical impact [4].
  • Preoperative suprascapular nerve injuries do not predispose to an acute postoperative lesion [4].
  • In a young, active cohort, suprascapular neuropathy presented with one of two distinct primary presenting complaints: pain or weakness [5].
  • Arthroscopic suprascapular nerve decompression for suprascapular neuropathy at the suprascapular and/or spinoglenoid notch in the absence of major concomitant glenohumeral pathology results in good functional outcomes [6].
  • Arthroscopic suprascapular nerve decompression for suprascapular neuropathy at the suprascapular and/or spinoglenoid notch in the absence of major concomitant glenohumeral pathology results in significant improvements from before to after surgery [6].
  • In the absence of a well-defined lesion producing mechanical compression of the suprascapular nerve, suprascapular neuropathy should be treated non-operatively [7].
  • Initial treatment of isolated suprascapular neuropathy is typically nonoperative, consisting of physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and activity modification [8].
  • Open or arthroscopic operative intervention is warranted for isolated suprascapular neuropathy when there is extrinsic nerve compression or progressive pain and/or weakness [8].
  • Decompression of the suprascapular nerve at the spinoglenoid notch did not lead to a better functional outcome compared to repair alone in patients with posterosuperior massive rotator cuff tears and suprascapular neuropathy [9].
  • No recommendations regarding suprascapular nerve release in conjunction with rotator cuff repair can be made at this time [10].
  • Further research is necessary to better delineate the indications for suprascapular nerve release in conjunction with rotator cuff repair [10].
  • Combined arthroscopic release of the superior transverse scapular ligament and rotator cuff repair in patients with large/massive rotator cuff tears and suprascapular neuropathy did not produce statistically significant improved outcomes compared with repair of the rotator cuff alone [22].

Anatomy & Pathophysiology

Nerve Course and Entrapment Sites

  • The suprascapular nerve courses from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus to its motor insertion on the supraspinatus and, more distally, the infraspinatus [13].
  • The superior transverse scapular ligament arises from the medial base of the coracoid overlying the suprascapular notch [32].
  • The suprascapular artery runs superior to the superior transverse scapular ligament, while the nerve runs deep to it [32].
  • Entrapment of the suprascapular nerve at the suprascapular notch causes denervation of both the supraspinatus and the infraspinatus [32].
  • The spinoglenoid ligament overlies the suprascapular nerve at the spinoglenoid notch [32].
  • Entrapment, traction, or compression of the suprascapular nerve at the spinoglenoid notch causes denervation of the infraspinatus [32].
  • Anatomical variations at the suprascapular notch, including abnormally oriented subscapularis muscle fibers, anterior coracoscapular ligament, and calcified superior transverse scapular ligament, are predisposing factors for suprascapular nerve entrapment [47].
  • The distances from the posterolateral corner of the acromion to the suprascapular and spinoglenoid notches were approximately 43 and 32 mm, respectively, regardless of height and sex [46].

Etiology and Mechanisms

  • Suprascapular nerve neuropathy occurs when the nerve is injured along its course from the upper trunk of the brachial plexus to its motor insertion on the supraspinatus and infraspinatus [13].
  • Nerve injury can occur from either compression or traction [13].
  • Cystic lesions arising from a labral or capsular tear can compress the nerve along its course over the scapula [13].
  • Nerve traction is theorized to arise from chronic overhead athletics or due to a retracted rotator cuff tear [13].
  • Suprascapular neuropathy with complete neurogenic fatty replacement has been described in patients with intact rotator cuff tendons in the absence of traction or compression mechanisms [3].
  • A lipoma can cause suprascapular nerve entrapment [11].
  • A large hematoma of the scapula can cause suprascapular nerve entrapment [16].
  • Malpositioned superior screws from reverse shoulder arthroplasty can cause suprascapular nerve entrapment [28].
  • Placement of the superior and posterior screws in the glenoid baseplate during reverse total shoulder arthroplasty risks injury to the suprascapular nerve [48].

Pathophysiology and Tissue Changes

  • Suprascapular nerve injury is an underlying mechanism leading to compromise of the rotator cuff enthesis structure [12].
  • Suprascapular nerve injury may cause severe fatty changes and inhibition of postoperative tendon healing in large rotator cuff tears [51].
  • Decompression provides reliable pain relief, but recovery of shoulder function and restoration of atrophied muscle tissue may be incomplete [18].

Classification

  • Suprascapular neuropathy can present secondary to various etiologies including entrapment or compression [13].
  • Entrapment of the suprascapular nerve usually occurs at the suprascapular or spinoglenoid notch [19].
  • Suprascapular nerve entrapment has been reported secondary to a lipoma [11].
  • Varicose veins at the spinoglenoidal notch have been identified as an unusual cause of suprascapular nerve compression [19].
  • Suprascapular neuropathy is associated with rotator cuff tendon tears and fatty degeneration [1].
  • Chronic rotator cuff tendon tears and suprascapular neuropathy are both associated with fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy of the rotator cuff muscles, but the pattern of fatty infiltration is markedly different in the two situations [14].
  • Suprascapular nerve injury can occur after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty, with correlation to screw out of vault penetration [4].

Clinical Presentation

  • Suprascapular neuropathy is a potential source of shoulder pain and functional limitation [13].
  • Suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome was first described and correctly interpreted by André Thomas in 1936, predating the commonly credited work of Kopell and Thompson [21].

Investigations

  • Shoulder surgeons should consider electrophysiologic evaluation for patients with clinical or radiographic signs of suprascapular neuropathy [2].
  • High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging is recommended to evaluate complex cases of nerve entrapment [49].
  • MRI-documented spontaneous resolution of a spinoglenoid notch cyst and associated suprascapular nerve palsy has been reported [52].
  • Surgical treatment for a spinoglenoid notch cyst and associated suprascapular nerve palsy could be withheld if patients show signs of clinical recovery, provided they are followed closely [52].
  • A complete history and physical, careful attention to auxiliary tests, and treatment of multiple diagnoses in the same shoulder avoids missed pathologic features and necessity for revision operations [11].
  • The pattern of fatty infiltration is markedly different in patients with chronic rotator cuff tendon tears compared to those with suprascapular neuropathy [14].
  • Chronic rotator cuff tendon tears and suprascapular neuropathy are both associated with fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy of the rotator cuff muscles [14].
  • The axillary view taken with the arm in the functional position of elevation in the plane of the scapula is oriented so that both the spinoglenoid notch and the scapular neck are visible [24].
  • Standardized plain films are almost always sufficient to garner the information needed for shoulder evaluation [24].
  • The temptation to "overimage" should be resisted, obtaining only the scans or reconstructions that are necessary for the care of the patient [24].
  • CT scans may offer a few degrees of increased precision in the measurement of glenoid version, but this precision does not improve the quality of the surgery or the clinical outcome [24].
  • The purpose of imaging of the shoulder is to help establish the diagnosis, determine the severity of the pathoanatomy, assist in surgical planning, and enable the surgeon to illustrate the condition of the shoulder to the patient [24].
  • At least two X-ray views should be obtained: an anteroposterior in the plane of the glenoid and an axillary projection with the arm in abduction to show the relationship of the humeral head to the glenoid [37].
  • Magnetic resonance imaging is useful to identify osteonecrosis of the humeral head, or a bone tumour [37].
  • Magnetic resonance imaging can identify labral tears and rotator cuff tears, although the accuracy for these is enhanced by combining the scan with arthrography [37].
  • Computed tomography is helpful for planning fracture surgery and shoulder joint replacement [37].
  • Ultrasound is a simple and accurate test for identifying rotator cuff tears and calcific tendinitis [37].
  • Ultrasound can be useful in guiding injections or barbotage (aspirating calcific deposits in the rotator cuff) [37].
  • Arthroscopy is useful for diagnosing and treating subacromial impingement, intra-articular lesions, detachment of the glenoid labrum and rotator cuff tears [37].
  • The shoulder is a three-dimensional structure that cannot be represented by a single planar view [39].
  • Critical relationships—such as the degree of centering of the humeral head—change with the position of the arm [39].
  • Shoulder pathology may be found in a large number of different bones and soft tissues [39].
  • Overlying and superimposed structures as well as metallic implants may complicate imaging the structures of interest [39].
  • Surgeons need to develop a judicious approach to imaging that yields the information necessary to treat the patient while avoiding the tendency to "over-image" [39].

Treatment

Non-Operative

  • Nonoperative treatment should include a period of rest and activity modification, and antiinflammatory medication followed by a supervised physical therapy program [41].
  • The focus of physical therapy is to preserve the normal physiologic range of motion of the shoulder and strengthen the shoulder girdle [41].
  • Physical therapy exercises include scapular stabilization, and resistive strength straining of the trapezius, rhomboids, and serratus musculature [41].
  • When a space occupying lesion is present or there is visible atrophy of the infraspinatus, the course of nonoperative treatment should be minimal (maximum 3 months) to avoid irreversible damage to the infraspinatus [41].

Operative

  • Open or arthroscopic operative intervention is warranted when there is extrinsic nerve compression or progressive pain and/or weakness [8].
  • The primary indications for arthroscopic decompression of the suprascapular nerve and the spinoglenoid notch are a prolonged course of symptoms, most commonly a chronic ache in the posterolateral aspect of the shoulder, and a failed minimum 6 month course of nonoperative treatment [41].
  • Arthroscopic SSN decompression for suprascapular neuropathy at the suprascapular and/or spinoglenoid notch in the absence of major concomitant glenohumeral pathology results in good functional outcomes with significant improvements from before to after surgery [6].
  • Arthroscopic release of the suprascapular nerve can be performed safely and effectively, with all patients showing improvement in postoperative electromyographic findings and marked improvement in pain relief and function [44].
  • Arthroscopic release of the suprascapular nerve and transverse ligament is a safe and effective treatment for competitive swimmers with suprascapular neuropathy, allowing return to sport with resolution of pain and improvement in function [45].
  • Release of the spinoglenoid ligament with resultant suprascapular nerve decompression may result in relief of pain and a return of normal shoulder function [15].
  • Decompression gives reliable pain relief, but recovery of shoulder function and restoration of atrophied muscle tissue may be incomplete [18].
  • Combined arthroscopic release of the superior transverse scapular ligament and rotator cuff repair in patients with large/massive RCTs and suprascapular neuropathy did not produce statistically significant improved outcomes compared with repair of the rotator cuff alone [22].
  • 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 [10].

Postoperative Rehabilitation

  • In cases of isolated suprascapular nerve palsy at the spinoglenoid notch, patients were placed in a simple sling with immediate initiation of pendulum exercises and passive range of motion [42].
  • Patients were seen again at 1 week after surgery to assess strength and begin physical therapy, which consisted of passive range-of-motion and isometric exercises [42].
  • If significant infraspinatus atrophy was present, electrical stimulation was used [42].
  • Resistance and overhead exercises started at 4 to 8 weeks postoperatively in cases of isolated suprascapular nerve decompression at the spinoglenoid notch [42].

Complications

  • Preoperative suprascapular nerve injuries do not have a significant clinical impact and do not predispose to an acute postoperative lesion [4].

Recovery

  • Arthroscopic suprascapular nerve decompression for suprascapular neuropathy at the suprascapular and/or spinoglenoid notch in the absence of major concomitant glenohumeral pathology results in good functional outcomes with significant improvements from before to after surgery [6].
  • Full recovery of shoulder function was achieved following treatment for suprascapular nerve entrapment caused by a large hematoma of the scapula [16].

Key Evidence

  • [L3] The exact association and etiology of suprascapular neuropathy in patients with rotator cuff pathology remain unclear. [1] (10.1016/j.jse.2013.06.011)
  • [L4] Shoulder surgeons should consider electrophysiologic evaluation of patients with clinical or radiographic signs of suprascapular neuropathy and be cognizant of the parameters that constitute an abnormal study. [2] (10.1016/j.jse.2010.10.039)
  • [L4] This is the first description of suprascapular neuropathy with complete neurogenic fatty replacement in patients with intact rotator cuff tendons in the absence of traction or compression mechanisms. [3] (10.1016/j.arthro.2014.01.010)
  • [L1] Preoperative suprascapular nerve injuries do not have a significant clinical impact and do not predispose to an acute postoperative lesion. [4] (10.1016/j.jse.2023.06.026)
  • [L4] In this young, active cohort, suprascapular neuropathy presented with one of two distinct primary presenting complaints: pain or weakness. [5] (10.1177/2325967123s00003)
  • [L4] Arthroscopic SSN decompression for suprascapular neuropathy at the suprascapular and/or spinoglenoid notch in the absence of major concomitant glenohumeral pathology results in good functional outcomes with significant improvements from before to after surgery. [6] (10.1016/j.arthro.2020.10.020)
  • [L4] In the absence of a well-defined lesion producing mechanical compression of the suprascapular nerve, suprascapular neuropathy should be treated non-operatively. [7] (10.2106/00004623-199708000-00007)
  • [L5] Initial treatment of isolated suprascapular neuropathy is typically nonoperative, consisting of physical therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and activity modification; however, open or arthroscopic operative intervention is warranted when there is extrinsic nerve compression or progressive pain and/or weakness. [8] (10.2106/jbjs.i.01743)
  • [L3] Decompression of the suprascapular nerve at the spinoglenoid notch did not lead to a better functional outcome compared to repair alone in patients with posterosuperior massive rotator cuff tears and suprascapular neuropathy. [9] (10.1186/s12891-021-04075-1)
  • [L4] 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. [10] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.11.033)
  • [L4] A complete history and physical, careful attention to auxiliary tests, and treatment of multiple diagnoses in the same shoulder avoids missed pathologic features and necessity for revision operations. [11] (10.1097/01.blo.0000063791.32430.59)
  • [L5] This study identifies suprascapular nerve injury as an underlying mechanism leading to compromise of the rotator cuff enthesis structure. [12] (10.1016/j.jse.2019.12.028)
  • [L5] [13] (10.5435/jaaos-d-19-00526)
  • [L4] Chronic rotator cuff tendon tears and suprascapular neuropathy are both associated with fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy of the rotator cuff muscles, but the pattern of fatty infiltration is markedly different in the two situations. [14] (10.1016/j.jse.2013.01.028)
  • [L4] Release of the spinoglenoid ligament with resultant suprascapular nerve decompression may result in relief of pain and a return of normal shoulder function. [15] (10.1177/03635465990270062101)
  • [Case_report] Full recovery of shoulder function was achieved. [16] (10.1186/s12891-023-06723-0)
  • [L5] Decompression gives reliable pain relief, but recovery of shoulder function and restoration of atrophied muscle tissue may be incomplete. [18] (10.5435/00124635-199911000-00002)
  • [L4] Entrapment of the suprascapular nerve usually occurs at the suprascapular or spinoglenoid notch. [19] (10.1016/j.jse.2011.05.022)
  • [L4] Suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome was first described and correctly interpreted by André Thomas in 1936, predating the commonly credited work of Kopell and Thompson. [21] (10.2106/00004623-200108000-00018)
  • [L1] Combined arthroscopic release of the superior transverse scapular ligament and rotator cuff repair in patients with large/massive RCTs and suprascapular neuropathy did not produce statistically significant improved outcomes compared with repair of the rotator cuff alone. [22] (10.1177/03635465211021834)
  • [Case_report] This case is the first report of malpositioned superior screw from reverse shoulder arthroplasty causing suprascapular nerve entrapment. [28] (10.1016/j.jse.2009.10.004)
  • [L4] [41] (10.1016/j.xrrt.2021.04.004)
  • [L4] [42] (10.1016/j.jse.2013.03.009)
  • [L4] Arthroscopic release of the suprascapular nerve can be performed safely and effectively, with all patients showing improvement in postoperative electromyographic findings and marked improvement in pain relief and function. [44] (10.1016/j.arthro.2006.10.003)
  • [L4] Arthroscopic release of the suprascapular nerve and transverse ligament is a safe and effective treatment for competitive swimmers with suprascapular neuropathy, allowing return to sport with resolution of pain and improvement in function. [45] (10.1177/0363546513477383)
  • [L4] Regardless of height and sex, the distances from the posterolateral corner of the acromion to the suprascapular and spinoglenoid notches were approximately 43 and 32 mm, respectively. [46] (10.1016/j.jseint.2022.04.002)
  • [L4] Anatomical variations at the suprascapular notch, including abnormally oriented subscapularis muscle fibers, anterior coracoscapular ligament, and calcified superior transverse scapular ligament, are predisposing factors for suprascapular nerve entrapment. [47] (10.1007/s00167-003-0378-3)
  • [L5] Placement of the superior and posterior screws in the glenoid baseplate during rTSA risks injury to the SSN. [48] (10.1016/j.jse.2020.07.008)
  • [L5] They recommend high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging to evaluate complex cases of nerve entrapment. [49] (10.1007/s11552-014-9652-8)
  • [L5] In clinical settings, SN injury may cause severe fatty changes and inhibition of postoperative tendon healing in large RCTs. [51] (10.5397/cise.2022.01207)
  • [Case_report] The authors report the first MRI-documented spontaneous resolution of a spinoglenoid notch cyst and associated suprascapular nerve palsy, proposing that surgical treatment could be withheld if patients show signs of clinical recovery, provided they are followed closely. [52] (10.1016/j.jse.2006.06.014)

References

[1] Association of suprascapular neuropathy with rotator cuff tendon tears and fatty degeneration. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2013.06.011

[2] Suprascapular neuropathy in a shoulder referral practice. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2010.10.039

[3] Complete Fatty Infiltration of Intact Rotator Cuffs Caused by Suprascapular Neuropathy. Arthroscopy. 2014. DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2014.01.010

[4] Suprascapular nerve injury after reverse total shoulder arthroplasty: correlation with screw out of vault penetration and functional situation: prospective study. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2023. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2023.06.026

[5] Paper 03: Suprascapular Neuropathy: Two Distinct Presentations and Outcomes of Decompression. Orthopaedic Journal of Sports Medicine. 2023. DOI: 10.1177/2325967123s00003

[6] Clinical Outcomes of Arthroscopic Suprascapular Nerve Decompression for Suprascapular Neuropathy. Arthroscopy. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2020.10.020

[7] Suprascapular Neuropathy. Results of Non-Operative Treatment. The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery*. 1997. DOI: 10.2106/00004623-199708000-00007

[8] Suprascapular Neuropathy. Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery. 2010. DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.i.01743

[9] Comparison of clinical outcome of decompression of suprascapular nerve at spinoglenoid notch for patients with posterosuperior massive rotator cuff tears and suprascapular neuropathy. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2021. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-021-04075-1

[10] Suprascapular neuropathy: what does the literature show?. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2012. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.11.033

[11] Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment Secondary to a Lipoma. Clinical Orthopaedics & Related Research. 2003. DOI: 10.1097/01.blo.0000063791.32430.59

[12] Effect of suprascapular nerve injury on rotator cuff enthesis. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2020. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2019.12.028

[13] The Evaluation and Management of Suprascapular Neuropathy. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 2020. DOI: 10.5435/jaaos-d-19-00526

[14] A comparative analysis of fatty infiltration and muscle atrophy in patients with chronic rotator cuff tears and suprascapular neuropathy. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2013.01.028

[15] Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment at the Spinoglenoid Notch in a Professional Baseball Pitcher. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 1999. DOI: 10.1177/03635465990270062101

[16] Suprascapular nerve entrapment caused by a large hematoma of the scapula: a case report. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2023. DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06723-0

[18] Suprascapular Neuropathy. Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 1999. DOI: 10.5435/00124635-199911000-00002

[19] Varicose veins at the spinoglenoidal notch: an unusual cause of suprascapular nerve compression. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2011. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2011.05.022

[21] Who Really First Described and Explained the Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment Syndrome?. The Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery-American Volume. 2001. DOI: 10.2106/00004623-200108000-00018

[22] Outcomes of Arthroscopic Nerve Release in Patients Treated for Large or Massive Rotator Cuff Tears and Associated Suprascapular Neuropathy: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blinded Clinical Trial. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2021. DOI: 10.1177/03635465211021834

[24] Rockwood And Matsen S The Shoulder. Arthroscopic Management of Prearthritic and Arthritic Conditions of the Shoulder and the Postarthroplasty Shoulder > Radiographic Evaluation.

[28] Suprascapular neuropathy secondary to reverse shoulder arthroplasty: A case report. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2010. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2009.10.004

[32] Aaos Comprehensive Orthopaedic Review 3. Anatomy of the Shoulder, Arm, and Elbow > I. Shoulder.

[37] Apley And Solomon S Concise System Of Orthopaedics And Trauma. INVESTIGATION.

[39] Rockwood And Matsen S The Shoulder. Developmental Anatomy of the Shoulder and Anatomy of the Glenohumeral Joint > SENIOR EDITOR COMMENTARY.

[41] Endoscopic/arthroscopic decompression of the suprascapular nerve at the spinoglenoid notch: indications and surgical technique. JSES Reviews, Reports, and Techniques. 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.xrrt.2021.04.004

[42] Suprascapular nerve entrapment isolated to the spinoglenoid notch: surgical technique and results of open decompression. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2013. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2013.03.009

[44] Arthroscopic Release of Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment at the Suprascapular Notch: Technique and Preliminary Results. Arthroscopy. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2006.10.003

[45] Suprascapular Neuropathy as a Cause of Swimmer’s Shoulder. The American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2013. DOI: 10.1177/0363546513477383

[46] An anatomical study for the location of suprascapular and spinoglenoid notches using three-dimensional computed tomography images of scapula. JSES International. 2022. DOI: 10.1016/j.jseint.2022.04.002

[47] Variations in anatomy at the suprascapular notch possibly causing suprascapular nerve entrapment: an anatomical study. Knee Surgery, Sports Traumatology, Arthroscopy. 2003. DOI: 10.1007/s00167-003-0378-3

[48] Risk of suprascapular nerve injury during glenoid baseplate fixation for reverse total shoulder arthroplasty: a cadaveric study. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2021. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2020.07.008

[49] Subclavius Posticus: An Anomalous Muscle in Association with Suprascapular Nerve Compression in an Athlete. HAND. 2014. DOI: 10.1007/s11552-014-9652-8

[51] Effect of suprascapular nerve injury on muscle and regenerated enthesis in a rat rotator cuff tear model. Clinics in Shoulder and Elbow. 2023. DOI: 10.5397/cise.2022.01207

[52] Spontaneous resolution of a spinoglenoid notch cyst and associated suprascapular nerve palsy: A case report. Journal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery. 2007. DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2006.06.014

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