Suprascapular nerve radiofrequency pain treatment is an advanced technique used to relieve chronic shoulder pain, particularly in patients with conditions such as tendinitis, osteoarthritis or rotator cuff injuries.
This minimally invasive procedure is performed at Clínica San Román’s Pain Management Unit, using radiofrequency technology to interrupt the pain signals transmitted by the suprascapular nerve.
What is the Suprascapular Nerve?
The suprascapular nerve is responsible for the sensory and motor innervation of various structures of the shoulder, including the rotator cuff muscles and part of the glenohumeral joint.
This nerve is essential for shoulder motion and sensation in this region.
When irritated or compressed, it can cause chronic shoulder pain that affects arm function and limits range of motion.
Indications for Suprascapular Nerve Radiofrequency
This treatment is indicated for patients with chronic shoulder pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as physical therapy or medication.
Some of the conditions that may benefit from suprascapular nerve RF include:
- Rotator cuff tendinitis: Inflammation of the tendons surrounding the shoulder joint.
- Shoulder osteoarthritis: Degeneration of the cartilage that causes friction between the bones and pain.
- Shoulder injuries: Damage to shoulder structures that generate persistent pain.
- Subacromial bursitis: Inflammation of the synovial bursae in the shoulder, causing pain and limiting movement.
How does Suprascapular Nerve Radiofrequency work?
The radiofrequency procedure is minimally invasive and is performed under local anesthesia.
It involves using a high-frequency electrical current to interrupt pain signals traveling through the suprascapular nerve.
This temporary blockade prevents pain from reaching the brain, providing lasting relief.
The procedure is carried out in several stages:
- Imaging guidance: The physician uses ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance to locate the suprascapular nerve accurately.
- Application of radiofrequency: A fine needle is introduced near the nerve, and through it a controlled electric current is applied that generates heat, temporarily deactivating the nerve fibers responsible for the pain.
- Pain relief: The treatment interrupts pain signals sent to the brain, providing significant relief that can last for several months.
Suprascapular Nerve Radiofrequency Benefits
Radiofrequency pain treatment offers multiple benefits for patients with chronic shoulder pain:
- Prolonged pain relief: The procedure can provide months of relief, significantly improving the patient’s quality of life.
- Minimally invasive procedure: Unlike surgery, this treatment does not require large incisions or long recovery times.
- Reduced dependence on medications: Patients can reduce or even eliminate the need for analgesic and anti-inflammatory medications, avoiding their long-term side effects.
- Improved mobility: By reducing shoulder pain, patients often experience an increased ability to perform unrestricted movement.
Procedure and Recovery
The suprascapular nerve radiofrequency procedure is relatively quick, lasting between 30 and 60 minutes.
It is performed in an outpatient setting, under local anesthesia.
Most patients can resume normal activities on the same day or the following day, although it is recommended to avoid strenuous physical activity for the first few days.
Treatment results are usually visible within a few days, and pain relief may last for several months.
In some cases, the procedure may need to be repeated if pain returns over time.
When to Consider Suprascapular Nerve Radiofrequency?
This treatment is ideal for patients who have tried other approaches without success, such as physical therapy, infiltrations or medications, and wish to avoid more invasive surgical options.
It is also suitable for those seeking long-term relief from chronic shoulder pain.
At Clínica San Román, pain specialists evaluate each case individually to determine if suprascapular nerve radiofrequency is the appropriate treatment.
This procedure is part of a multidisciplinary approach that seeks to maximize the benefits for the patient.
Conclusion
Suprascapular nerve radiofrequency is an effective and minimally invasive treatment for chronic shoulder pain.
At Clínica San Román’s Pain Management Unit, we offer this advanced procedure to improve the quality of life of patients, helping them to recover mobility and reduce pain significantly.
If you suffer from chronic shoulder pain, we invite you to consult with our specialists to explore whether radiofrequency is a suitable option for you.
