Suprascapular nerve injury following trauma to the shoulder.

Four cases of suprascapular nerve injury following various types of trauma are reported. This nerve is subject to damage where it passes through the suprascapular notch. Initially, main complaints are vague shoulder area pain, weakness in shoulder abduction and external rotation, followed by atrophy of the shoulder girdle muscles innervated by the suprascapular nerve. Electromyography confirms the diagnosis. The literature was reviewed for possible mechanisms of the suprascapular nerve injury, which should not be confused with cervical radiculopathy, brachial plexopathy, or rotator cuff injury. Early active and passive range of motion exercises are recommended, to retard muscle atrophy and prevent secondary joint problems. If regeneration does not occur, surgical exploration should be considered.