Who might benefit from a suprascapular nerve block?

SSNB is commonly used in patients with persistent or severe shoulder pain, particularly when symptoms are limiting function or delaying recovery.

It may be appropriate for:

• Frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
• Rotator cuff tendinopathy or tears
• Subacromial pain syndrome
• Shoulder osteoarthritis
• Persistent pain following shoulder injury or surgery

It is particularly useful when:

• Pain is severe and limiting movement and daily life
• Progress with physiotherapy is being limited due to pain
• Other treatments have not provided sufficient relief

Why consider a suprascapular nerve block?

The primary aim of SSNB is to reduce pain to enable recovery.

Benefits may include:

• Significant pain relief, often within days
• Improved range of movement
• Ability to engage more effectively in physiotherapy
• Reduced reliance on oral pain medication

The injection forms part of a broader treatment plan, and shouldn’t be used as a standalone solution.

Types of suprascapular nerve block

Local anaesthetic and corticosteroid injection

This is the most commonly performed SSNB.

• Local anaesthetic provides short-term pain relief
• Corticosteroid helps reduce inflammation and prolong the effect

This combination is widely used in conditions such as frozen shoulder, where pain reduction can significantly improve rehabilitation outcomes.

Suprascapular nerve block with hydrodilatation (in selected cases)

In some patients, particularly those with frozen shoulder, SSNB may be combined with other procedures such as hydrodilatation (joint capsule distension).

This approach aims to:

• Reduce pain (via the nerve block)
• Improve joint mobility (via capsular stretching)

Repeat or staged injections

In certain cases, a repeat injection may be considered as part of a staged treatment approach, depending on response and clinical progress.

Best practice and clinical approach

At Complete Injections, SSNB is performed in line with best practice guidelines:

• Careful clinical assessment and diagnosis prior to injection
• Use of ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate and safe delivery
• Integration with a structured rehabilitation programme
• Individualised treatment planning based on patient goals

The aim is not simply to reduce pain, but to support long-term recovery and function.

The procedure – what to expect

Before the procedure

• A full consultation and ultrasound assessment will be carried out
• The procedure, benefits, and potential risks will be explained
• You will have the opportunity to ask questions before proceeding

During the procedure

• You will usually be positioned sitting or lying comfortably
• The skin is cleaned, and ultrasound is used to identify the suprascapular nerve
• A fine needle is guided precisely to the target area
• The injection is delivered around the nerve

The procedure typically takes 10–15 minutes.

After the procedure

• You may experience immediate relief from the local anaesthetic
• This may wear off after a few hours before the steroid effect begins
• Pain relief from the steroid typically develops over several days

You will usually be advised to:

• Gradually increase movement as pain allows
• Begin or continue your physiotherapy sessions within 5-7 days
• Avoid excessive strain for a short period after the injection

Is a suprascapular nerve block safe?

Ultrasound-guided SSNB is considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure.

Using ultrasound allows:

• Accurate placement of the injection
• Avoidance of surrounding structures
• Reduced risk of complications

Side effects are uncommon but may include:

• Temporary soreness at the injection site
• Short-term increase in pain
• Temporary numbness or weakness in the shoulder
• Rarely, infection or bleeding

All risks will be discussed with you prior to treatment.

Why choose Complete Injections?

• This treatment is carried out by Dr Matteo Bernardotto, who has extensive experience in ultrasound-guided injections
• Specialist expertise in shoulder pain and sports injuries
• High-precision ultrasound-guided procedures
• Integrated approach combining diagnosis, injection therapy, and rehabilitation

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a suprascapular nerve block painful?

Most patients tolerate the procedure very well. The injection is performed using a fine needle under ultrasound guidance, and discomfort is usually minimal and short-lived.

You may feel a brief ache or pressure during the injection itself.

How quickly does a suprascapular nerve block work?

The local anaesthetic can provide pain relief within a few hours of the procedure. If corticosteroid is also used, the full effect typically develops over several days.

Some patients experience significant early improvement, while others notice a more gradual reduction in pain over days or sometimes a couple of weeks.

How long does the pain relief last?

This varies depending on the underlying condition and individual response to treatment.

Some patients experience relief lasting several weeks or months, particularly when the injection is combined with appropriate rehabilitation and physiotherapy.

Is the injection performed under ultrasound guidance?

Yes. At Complete Injections, suprascapular nerve blocks are performed under real-time ultrasound guidance.

Ultrasound allows accurate visualisation of the nerve and surrounding structures, helping to improve precision, safety, and effectiveness.

Can I drive after a suprascapular nerve block?

In most cases, patients can drive afterwards, although this depends on how the shoulder feels following the injection. Some patients may experience temporary weakness or numbness due to the local anaesthetic.

If you are unsure, we recommend arranging transport home.

Are there any side effects or risks from a suprascapular nerve block?

Suprascapular nerve blocks are generally considered very safe.

Possible side effects include:

• Temporary soreness at the injection site
• Brief increase in pain after the procedure – injection flare
• Temporary numbness or weakness in the shoulder
• Rarely, infection, bleeding, or allergic reaction

All potential risks and benefits will be discussed with you before treatment.

Will I still need physiotherapy?

Yes! The injection is designed to support rehabilitation rather than replace it.

Reducing pain can allow improved movement and better engagement with physiotherapy, which is important for long-term recovery.

How many injections will I need?

Many patients improve following a single injection. However, treatment recommendations depend on the underlying diagnosis, symptom severity, and response to treatment.

A personalised plan will be discussed during your consultation.