Overview
Shoulder muscles may shrink if the nerve stays injured.
Symptoms
Common signs:
- Shoulder weakness
- Shoulder pain
Less common
- Numb outer upper arm
- Muscle wasting
Look up a symptom: Muscle weakness in arms or legs
When to get medical care
Call 911This isn't an emergency by itself. Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, or fainting.
Get care todayWeakness after a dislocation.
See a doctor soonWeakness lasting weeks.
Causes
Nerve stretch or compression.
Who is more likely to get it
- Volleyball, baseball players
Diagnosis
A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.
The exam
A physical exam.
Tests
Tests, if needed:
- EMG:
- MRI:
Treatment
Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.
Self-care
- Physical therapy
- Avoid heavy overhead lifting while healing
Which doctor treats this
- Urgent care or the ER can treat it first. For minor problems, your primary care provider can help.
- They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).
Back to school, work, or sports
- Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.
Outlook
Most improve with therapy.
Getting ready for your visit
Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.
What to bring
- A list of your medicines and supplements
- Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
Questions to ask
- What's causing this?
- What treatment do you recommend?
Research studies
Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.
Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Axillary or suprascapular nerve injury (shoulder nerve)
Sources
Last updated 2026-11-12.