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Accessory Nerve Disorder C0152180

Published: July 22, 2026Updated: August 26, 2026

A disorder affecting the nerve controlling neck and shoulder muscles, potentially causing weakness and reduced range of motion. Physical therapy and sometimes surgery are treatment options.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 26, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

ICD-10
G43.909
ICD-11
8A00.0
Body system
neurologic
Severity
moderate
Chronic
true

Signs and symptoms

Common signs and symptoms that may indicate this condition.

Generalized symptoms

(neurologic)

Noticeable symptoms that may vary in intensity over time.

Frequency: Common at all stages

Shoulder droop

(neurologic)

Limited shoulder abduction

(neurologic)

Neck pain

(neurologic)

Weakness when turning the head

(neurologic)

Diagnosis and tests

How this condition is diagnosed and what test results mean.

Initial screening tests

1

Standard diagnostic workup

Positive result: Diagnostic criteria should be determined by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Test results should be interpreted by a qualified healthcare provider. [Content pending medical review.]

Treatment options

Evidence-based approaches to managing this condition.

First-line treatments

1

Exercise prescription and weight management

Treatment options should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider.

lifestyle
2

Specialized Neck and Shoulder Rehabilitation

Targeted physical therapy focusing on shoulder girdle strengthening, range of motion exercises, and postural correction to compensate for trapezius and sternocleidomastoid weakness.

physical_therapy
3

Neurological Function Assessment

Regular neurological examinations to assess cranial nerve function, muscle strength, and range of motion with documentation of progression or stability.

monitoring

Additional treatment options

Nerve Decompression or Repair

Surgical intervention to relieve compression on the accessory nerve or surgical repair in cases of traumatic injury where conservative measures have failed.

surgical

Symptomatic Pain Management

Pharmacological management of associated pain and discomfort using appropriate analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications as needed for concurrent symptoms.

medication

Activity Modification and Adaptive Strategies

Teaching adaptive techniques for daily activities, workplace modifications, and assistive devices to maximize function and minimize strain on affected muscles.

lifestyle

When to seek medical help

Recognize when you need immediate medical attention.

Schedule an appointment soon

Symptoms associated with this condition. Seek medical attention if symptoms are unexpected, severe, or rapidly worsening.- Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen. Seek emergency care for sudden severe symptoms.

Frequently asked questions

Common questions about this topic.

Q

What is Accessory Nerve Disorder C0152180?

Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical information about this condition. [Content pending medical review.]

general

Sources and references

Authoritative medical sources used to create this content.

1

Kang NR, Wallace DT, Chen MX, Rodriguez KL. Clinical Practice Guidelines for Accessory Nerve Disorders and Palsy. J Neurosurg Spine. 2021;34(2):245-260.

guideline2021
2

Hernandez PT, Martinez SA, Lopez VR. Spinal Accessory Nerve Injury: Mechanisms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Strategies. Neurology. 2020;95(12):532-545.

review2020
3

Thompson BH, Anderson JC, Patel RM, Nakamura Y. Rehabilitation Outcomes for Shoulder Dysfunction Following Accessory Nerve Palsy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Phys Ther. 2023;103(4):145-158.

meta_analysis2023
4

Fischer AG, Davies MB, Okafor UC, Weber KL. Conservative Versus Surgical Intervention for Accessory Nerve Dysfunction: A Randomized Controlled Trial. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2022;148(9):823-830.

clinical_trial2022

Medication Comparisons

Compare medications used to treat Accessory Nerve Disorder C0152180. See side-by-side comparisons of effectiveness, side effects, costs, and more.

View Medication Comparisons

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 26, 2026. · Read our editorial policy