Suprascapular neuropathy presents with posterolateral shoulder pain and weakness. In the absence of a fracture, space-occupying lesion, or immediate surgical indication, non-operative management is the recommended initial approach.
Patients present without clear structural or surgical indications. The focus is on conservative care to rest the affected nerve, reduce inflammation, and rebuild shoulder girdle stability through a guided rehabilitation program.
Management begins with activity modification — specifically limiting repetitive overhead arm movements — combined with anti-inflammatory medication and a structured physical therapy program targeting key shoulder and scapular muscle groups. The complete protocol specifies the rehabilitation targets and full clinical algorithm.
DOI: 10.52965/001c.25554
Without clear evidence of a fracture, space-occupying lesion, or immediate need for surgery, non-operative treatment including a rehabilitation program, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and lifestyle modification is first-line therapy.
Physical therapy is targeted at strengthening the rotator cuff muscles, trapezius, levator scapulae, rhomboids, serratus anterior, and deltoid muscle(s).
Since many SN neuropathies result from excessive repetitive overhead arm movements, putting those activities to a halt is beneficial to rest the shoulder and nerve and prevent further injury.
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