Suprascapular Nerve Entrapment

The suprascapular notch is converted to a foramen by the

attachment of the superior transverse ligament, which

crosses across the upper open end of the notch (29,30). The

ligament may be ossified. [The suprascapular notch has

been shown to exist as an osseous foramen in approximately

13% of specimens (26).] The suprascapular nerve passes

through the notch, and is susceptible to nerve compression

in this area. This condition occasionally is seen in patients

with inflammatory conditions or in young, active athletes

and is characterized by localized pain or atrophy of the

supraspinatus and infraspinatus. Treatment includes conservative management (antiinflammatory medications, possible cortisone injections, and activity modification). If it is

refractory to medical treatment or if localized atrophy is

present, operative nerve decompression usually is warranted.

Winging of the Scapula

Winging of the scapula is a deformity in which the scapula

angles up from the thorax (scapula alta), usually due to

muscular imbalance. It often is caused by neuropathy of the

long thoracic nerve and weakness of the serratus anterior, or

by neuropathy of the spinal accessory nerve with weakness

of the trapezius muscle (30,31).

HUMERUS