A suprascapular nerve is the major sensory supply to the shoulder joint and motor supply to the Supraspinatus and infraspinatus muscles.

It may be done for one of two reasons, namely:

1. To define the source of your pain more precisely or
2. To inject therapeutic steroid and local anaesthetic around the nerve so as to reduce its ability to transmit pain. Pain relief from the procedure varies from minimal to long-term, depending on the specific symptoms; in some cases it may fail to give any relief at all.

This injection is used to treat arthritis or bursitis of the shoulder joint. This is done for diagnostic as well as therapeutic purposes. Diagnostically, the block is used to confirm suprascapular nerve irritation or entrapment.

This injection consists of a local anesthetic and steroid.

The procedure is done with x-ray guidance and involves inserting a needle through skin and deeper tissues. There is some discomfort involved. However, the skin and deeper tissues are numbed with a local anesthetic. Most of the patients also receive intravenous sedation which makes the procedure easy to tolerate.

With any procedure there are risks, side effects and possibility of complications. Risks include pneumothorax (lung puncture) or nerve injury.

After the injection, your pain will be decreased which is a result of the local anesthetic.

1. You must have someone with you. You will not be allowed to drive home.
2. You may take routine medications including pain medicine.
3. A light meal is acceptable unless otherwise directed.

1. Your medical history will be reviewed.
2. An IV will be started, and you may be given some relaxing medication.
3. You will be monitored during and for a minimum of 30 minutes after the procedure.

If you get temporary relief from this procedure, then you may be a candidate for radio frequency lesioning of the suprascapular nerve. This procedure gives longer lasting relief.