Suprascapular Nerve Block

A suprascapular nerve block is a minimally invasive procedure used to relieve pain originating from the shoulder and upper back. The suprascapular nerve supplies sensation to the shoulder joint and part of the rotator cuff muscles. If this nerve becomes irritated or compressed, it can cause significant shoulder pain and limited mobility.

By injecting local anesthetic and sometimes a steroid near the nerve, the block can reduce inflammation, numb pain, and improve shoulder function.

Your provider may recommend a suprascapular nerve block if you suffer from:

• Shoulder arthritis
• Rotator cuff tears or tendinopathy
• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Chronic shoulder pain after surgery
• Suprascapular nerve entrapment

The nerve block can be both diagnostic (confirming the source of pain) and therapeutic (providing lasting pain relief).

The procedure is typically performed in an outpatient setting.

• You will sit or lie comfortably, exposing the back of the shoulder.
• The injection site is cleaned and sterilized.
• A local anesthetic is used to numb the skin.
• Using ultrasound or fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, a fine needle is advanced precisely to the area around the suprascapular nerve.
• A combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid (if appropriate) is injected.
• The entire procedure usually takes about 15–30 minutes, and you can return home the same day.

• You may feel immediate relief from the local anesthetic, but this temporary numbness may wear off after a few hours.
• Steroid effects usually begin within 2–5 days.
• Some mild soreness at the injection site is normal and should resolve quickly.
• You may be advised to limit strenuous activity involving the shoulder for 24–48 hours.
• Most patients experience significant pain relief and improved shoulder mobility following the procedure.

A suprascapular nerve block is generally very safe. However, possible risks include:

• Temporary numbness or weakness in the shoulder or arm
• Minor bruising or soreness at the injection site
• Infection (rare)
• Allergic reaction to medication (very rare)
• Temporary increased pain before the steroid starts working

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we take every precaution to minimize these risks and ensure your comfort.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah for shoulder and nerve pain care because we offer:

• Board-certified pain management specialists
• Precision-guided injections using ultrasound or fluoroscopy
• Personalized, patient-centered treatment plans
• Minimally invasive therapies for faster recovery

We are committed to helping you live with less pain and more freedom of movement.