Common causes include: 

• Repetitive overhead activity 

• Trauma or injury 

• Cysts or soft tissue masses 

• Muscle imbalance 

• Tight tendons around the shoulder such as the pectoralis minor 

• Narrowing around nerve pathways 

Symptoms include: 

• Shoulder weakness 

• Numbness or tingling 

• Burning or aching discomfort 

• Muscle fatigue 

• Loss of muscle size in more advanced cases 

Non-Surgical Treatment 

Treatment may include: 

• Rest from provocative overhead activity 

• Ice after activity if sore 

• Physical therapy 

• Activity modification 

• Anti-inflammatory treatment 

• Treatment of contributing shoulder mechanics 

Surgical Treatment 

Surgery may be recommended depending on the injury, symptoms, activity level, and response to non-surgical care. Surgical options may include: 

• Nerve decompression: Relieving pressure on the compressed nerve. 

• Treatment of the cause: Cysts, scar tissue, or other structures causing the compression may be removed or addressed. 

• Combined shoulder procedures: If shoulder instability or labral problems are causing the nerve issue, those may also be treated.