Suprascapular neuropathy in collegiate baseball player

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Sports Medicine
• Neurology

Background:

• Suprascapular neuropathy (SSN) is often a diagnosis of exclusion, with variable treatment plans.
• Preventing chronic rotator cuff atrophy requires focused diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation strategies.
• Standardized care protocols for SSN are lacking in current literature.

Observation:

• A collegiate baseball pitcher presented with right shoulder pain, initially treated conservatively without success.
• Magnetic resonance imaging was inconclusive; electrodiagnostic testing revealed decreased suprascapular nerve conduction velocity.
• The patient opted for surgical suprascapular nerve release followed by a structured rehabilitation program.

Findings:

• The baseball pitcher returned to unrestricted pitching 22 weeks post-surgery.
• The patient reported positive subjective feedback regarding recovery.
• No pain, loss of velocity, or decreased pitch control was noted upon return to play.

Implications:

• This case highlights the potential for successful surgical intervention and rehabilitation in athletes with SSN.
• Further research is needed to establish standardized and effective treatment and rehabilitation protocols for suprascapular nerve injuries.
• Optimizing recovery pathways can prevent long-term functional deficits in athletes.