Suprascapular Nerve Block

The suprascapular nerve supplies sensation to a substantial part of the shoulder joint and can contribute to pain associated with conditions such as shoulder osteoarthritis, rotator cuff disease and frozen shoulder. A suprascapular nerve block may be considered when shoulder pain has not improved adequately with medication, physiotherapy or other conservative treatments.

Using ultrasound or X-ray guidance, a fine needle is placed close to the suprascapular nerve and a small amount of local anaesthetic is injected. The image guidance helps the doctor identify the relevant anatomy and place the medication accurately while avoiding nearby structures. The block can be used diagnostically and may also provide short-term therapeutic pain relief.

If the block produces clear but temporary improvement, this provides useful information about how much the nerve is contributing to your pain and may support consideration of pulsed radiofrequency treatment. The duration of benefit varies between patients, and the procedure is generally used as part of a broader programme that may include exercise and shoulder rehabilitation.