Suprascapular Nerve Block
The suprascapular nerve is the primary sensory nerve to the shoulder joint, providing innervation to approximately 70% of the shoulder capsule. Suprascapular nerve blocks (SSNB) are an effective, minimally invasive treatment for shoulder pain from a wide range of conditions — from rotator cuff tears to adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) to shoulder arthritis.
Why Target the Suprascapular Nerve?
The shoulder is innervated by several nerves, but the suprascapular nerve carries the majority of pain signals from the joint. Blocking this single nerve can dramatically reduce shoulder pain with a simple, safe injection — providing relief that is often superior to direct intra-articular shoulder injections and longer-lasting than conventional corticosteroid shots.
Conditions Treated
- Rotator cuff tears and tendinopathy — Partial and full-thickness rotator cuff injuries causing chronic shoulder pain
- Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) — Significant pain reduction and improved range of motion; often combined with shoulder joint distension
- Glenohumeral osteoarthritis — Shoulder arthritis in patients not yet ready for shoulder replacement
- Post-shoulder surgery pain — Persistent pain after rotator cuff repair or shoulder surgery
- Chronic shoulder impingement
The Procedure
Under ultrasound guidance, Dr. Rubin identifies the suprascapular notch — a bony landmark at the top of the shoulder blade where the nerve passes. Local anesthetic and steroid are injected precisely at the nerve. The procedure takes 15–20 minutes in the office.
Suprascapular Nerve Pulsed Radiofrequency
For patients with more persistent shoulder pain, pulsed radiofrequency treatment of the suprascapular nerve can provide longer-lasting relief — similar in principle to radiofrequency ablation used for spinal pain. Dr. Rubin will discuss this option for appropriate patients.
Contact Us
For chronic shoulder pain that has not responded to physical therapy or standard injections, call 516-492-3100 to discuss whether a suprascapular nerve block is appropriate.