Controversies in the Overhead Athlete's Shoulder (AANA22)-The Dead Arm_ Evaluation & Management of Suprascapular Neuropathy

The Dead Arm_ Evaluation & Management of Suprascapular Neuropathy

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The discussion focuses on suprascapular neuropathy in overhead athletes, highlighting nerve compression at the suprascapular or spinal glenoid notch. Symptoms include painless weakness, often mimicking rotator cuff tears but without actual tears. Diagnosis involves MRI, EMG, and physical exams noting infraspinatus or supraspinatus weakness. Treatment includes non-operative measures and, if necessary, surgical decompression of the nerve—either at the suprascapular notch or spinal glenoid notch—especially when accompanied by labral tears or cysts. Surgical outcomes are generally positive with reported complete recovery and improved function post-operatively. Early recognition and targeted treatment improve prognosis in these athletes.

Asset Caption

Michael J. O'Brien, M.D.

Keywords

suprascapular neuropathy

overhead athletes

nerve compression

rotator cuff weakness

surgical decompression