Winged shoulder blade (long thoracic nerve injury)

Overview

The long thoracic nerve controls the muscle that holds the shoulder blade against the ribs.

Injury comes from heavy carrying, sports, or surgery.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Shoulder blade sticks out
• Shoulder pain
• Pain lifting the arm overhead

Less common

• Shoulder weakness

When to get medical care

Causes

Nerve injury.

Who is more likely to get it

• Athletes who throw or lift: Higher risk
• People after chest surgery: Higher risk

Possible complications

• Shoulder pain: From weak muscles

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Physical therapy
• Avoid heavy overhead lifting

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).

Living with it

Support groups and helplines

• Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Free NIH information on rare diseases, including where to find experts and patient groups.
• National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD): Patient groups, help finding care, and aid programs for rare diseases.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Recovery time varies. Ask your care team when you can drive, lift, work, and exercise.

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Athletes and heavy backpack users: Higher risk.

Outlook

Most recover in months to 2 years.

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 Winged shoulder blade (long thoracic nerve injury)