Spinal Accessory Nerve Palsy

Overview

This nerve is often injured during neck surgery or lymph node biopsy. Early recognition helps recovery.

Symptoms

• Shoulder weakness and drooping
• Difficulty raising the arm above the head
• Shoulder pain
• Winging of the shoulder blade

Causes and risk factors

Causes include neck surgery, lymph node biopsy, injury to the neck and, rarely, tumours.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis uses examination, nerve conduction studies and electromyography.

Treatment

Treatment includes physiotherapy and, in some cases, surgery to repair the nerve or transfer muscles.

When to see a doctor

See a doctor if you develop shoulder weakness after neck surgery or injury.