Could lateral shoulder weakness and numbness after overhead sports be quadrilateral space syndrome?

Doctor’s answer

The quadrilateral space is formed by the teres major, teres minor, long head of the triceps, and humeral neck, through which the posterior branch of the axillary nerve and posterior circumflex humeral artery pass. Overhead throwing or trauma causing local fibrous band compression can lead to dull pain in the lateral/posterior shoulder, weakness, and atrophy of the deltoid posterior bundle and teres minor, with symptoms worsening when lying on the affected side at night. MRI or angiography can help identify teres minor denervation and vascular compression. Early physical therapy and local injections for decompression may be effective, with surgical release considered if conservative measures fail.

This content is for education. Diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation require an individual assessment by a sports medicine specialist.