Arthroscopic Nerve Release
What is a Compressed or Pinched Nerve?
The shoulder joint relies on a network of nerves to control movement and sensation. A pinched nerve occurs when excessive pressure is placed on a nerve by surrounding tissues, causing pain, weakness, and numbness.
Causes of Nerve Compression in the Shoulder
- Repetitive Overhead Motion: Common in athletes such as baseball pitchers, tennis players, and swimmers.
- Scar Tissue and Paralabral Cysts: Scar tissue buildup or cyst formation can compress nerves.
- Trauma or Injury: Direct impact or excessive traction on the nerve can lead to compression.
- Shoulder Osteoarthritis: Bone spurs may impinge on nearby nerves.
Common Conditions Leading to Nerve Compression
- Suprascapular Nerve Compression: The most commonly affected nerve in the shoulder, causing deep aching pain and rotator cuff weakness.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Compression of nerves between the collarbone and first rib, leading to pain and numbness.
- Parsonage-Turner Syndrome: An inflammatory nerve condition causing sudden shoulder pain and weakness.
- Scapular Winging: Caused by nerve damage, leading to an abnormal protrusion of the shoulder blade.
What is Arthroscopic Nerve Release?
Arthroscopic nerve release is a minimally invasive procedure that relieves nerve compression by removing scar tissue, cysts, or tight structures that impinge on the nerve. Surgeons use a small camera and specialized instruments to carefully decompress the affected nerve, restoring normal function and reducing pain.
Recovery After Arthroscopic Nerve Release
Patients typically experience symptom relief within weeks. Physical therapy is often recommended to restore strength and range of motion. Full recovery may take a few months, depending on the severity of the nerve compression.
