Clinical presentation
Constant pain in the trapezius and scapular area for about three weeks followed by functional
disturbances in the arm ( difficulties to perform overhead activities)
Pattern
Painless weakness of abduction (supraspinatus) and gross but painless weakness of lateral
rotation (infraspinatus).
Causes
The majority of suprascapular nerve lesions reported have been in the area involving the
transverse scapular ligament
Chronic mechanical irritation may be caused by overhead activities such as racket sports,
lifting and volleyball playing.
Isolated infraspinatus muscle paralysis has been found in volleyball players as a result of
cocking of the arm.
Also a direct trauma, a compression (backpacking) or a fracture of the scapula may cause the
lesion.
Sometimes a 'viral neuritis' is hold responsible for a palsy of the suprascapular nerve.