11 randomized controlled trials were included in this meta-analysis investigating the short-term efficacy of a suprascapular nerve block (SSNB) for the management of chronic shoulder pain. Comparative treatments from identified studies included intra-articular corticosteroids, physical therapy, and placebo. Pain reduction and functional improvement were pooled at 1, 4 and 12 weeks. SSNB was significantly favoured for both pain relief and functional improvement compared to physical therapy and placebo, with the exception of functional improvement at 12 weeks, specifically, compared to placebo. No significant differences in either outcome were observed for SSNB versus intra-articular corticosteroids.