Nerve disorders within the shoulder affect nearby structures, and can cause pain, weakness and reduce mobility in the neck, shoulder and arm At Vitalis Physiotherapy, our treatment for shoulder nerve pain and related disorders aims to:
There are many nerves that run along the shoulder and arm that innervate muscles and structures to facilitate movement and sensation. The development, type and severity of a nerve issues can vary from person to person. Damage to neural structures or increased pressure from surrounding tissues like cartilage or tendons applied onto a nerve often causes the affected area to become inflamed or irritated, resulting in a myriad of painful and debilitating symptoms.
Some nerve disorders of the shoulder can mimic each other or other shoulder conditions with similar symptoms, or occur independently of each other.
There are a few types of common nerve disorders which affect the shoulder. Some can be related to a nerve injury or pinched nerve, but more specific neural disorders can include:
The cause of the condition is usually due to minor genetic defects involving the structure and function of muscle cells – muscle fibres within the shoulder and arm area cannot contract effectively, with muscle cells rather than nerves being the main culprit.
The cause of the nerve inflammation is relatively unknown – the condition usually progresses to trigger muscle weakness in the arm and possibly lead to partial paralysis. There currently is no cure for the syndrome, however certain physical therapy techniques can help symptoms.
The main causes of the syndrome include muscle tightness, overuse of the shoulder, cysts from a labral tear, and in rare cases, haematomas or tumours.
The condition usually occurs as a result of damage/trauma to the nerve or its surrounding structures. It presents as deep pain in the shoulder blades and a possible ‘winging’ of the scapula.
The condition usually occurs as a result of direct damage/trauma to the shoulder or structures surrounding the suprascapular nerve. It presents as deep pain in the posterior shoulder, often the result of repetitive overhead activities.
Trauma or a sudden jerking movement of the neck or arm can damage the nerve and trigger muscle wasting and weakness.
Though certain nerve disorders have their own specific causes, some general risk factors can include:
General symptoms of a shoulder nerve disorders can include:
If you are experiencing nerve pain in your shoulders or nearby in the arm or base of the neck, it is important that you see a medical professional to obtain a diagnosis and cause of your symptoms. You may be referred for scans to accurately determine diagnosis.
Though some nerve disorders have no cure, physical therapy is greatly beneficial at restoring movement, reducing pain and promoting healing. At Vitalis Physiotherapy, we tailor a unique treatment plan to aid in your recovery through:
Your physiotherapist may also advise heat or ice application, rest and if necessary, pain medication. Additionally, they might recommend for you to use supportbraces, rehabilitation devices or a suitable pillow.
Are you in pain caused by a nerve disorder in your shoulder? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment. Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
