Procedure Description
A suprascapular nerve block is a minimally invasive injection that targets the suprascapular nerve, which provides sensation to approximately 70% of the shoulder joint and motor input to some of its stabilizing muscles. This nerve can be a key contributor to chronic shoulder pain, especially when the pain is not responding to traditional therapies.
The block involves injecting a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a corticosteroid, near the suprascapular notch where the nerve passes beneath a ligament at the top of the scapula. The goal is to interrupt pain signals, reduce inflammation, and restore shoulder mobility and function.
What It Treats
A suprascapular nerve block is used to treat:
Chronic shoulder pain
Rotator cuff pathology (tears, tendinopathy)
Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
Shoulder osteoarthritis
Post-operative shoulder pain
Suprascapular nerve entrapment or irritation
Shoulder pain due to overuse or trauma
This procedure is especially helpful when pain limits range of motion or function and when physical therapy has been ineffective due to discomfort.
How It Is Performed
You will sit upright or lie on your side, depending on provider preference.
The back of your shoulder near the scapula is cleansed and numbed with a local anesthetic.
Using ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a thin needle is advanced to the suprascapular notch, where the nerve is located.
A small amount of local anesthetic (with or without corticosteroid) is injected around the nerve.
The needle is removed, and a bandage is applied.
The procedure usually takes 10–20 minutes and is performed in an outpatient clinic setting.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
No fasting is required unless sedation is planned (rare).
Continue regular medications unless advised otherwise. Blood thinners may need to be paused—consult your provider.
Inform your provider if you:
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Have allergies to anesthetics or steroids
Have an infection near the injection site or a systemic illness
Wear loose, sleeveless, or easy-access clothing for shoulder exposure.
What to Expect After the Procedure
You may experience numbness or heaviness in the shoulder immediately after the injection—this is temporary.
Pain relief typically begins within minutes to hours, and may last days to months, depending on the condition and whether a steroid is used.
You may be encouraged to resume physical therapy or range-of-motion exercises while the pain is controlled.
Avoid strenuous use of the shoulder for 24 hours following the injection.
If the block provides effective but temporary relief, your provider may consider repeat injections, radiofrequency ablation, or surgical consultation, depending on the underlying issue.
Call your provider if you experience:
Fever, redness, or swelling at the injection site
Worsening shoulder pain or new weakness
Signs of allergic reaction (rare)
Effective Relief for Shoulder Pain Without Surgery
At Parkview Spine & Pain, we offer image-guided suprascapular nerve blocks to help patients with shoulder pain regain motion, strength, and quality of life. Whether you're recovering from surgery or dealing with chronic degenerative conditions, this targeted approach can help break the cycle of pain and restore function.
👉 Schedule your consultation today to learn if a suprascapular nerve block is right for your shoulder pain.