Brachial plexus neuropathy is a common syndrome that, although a distinct clinical entity, is often unrecognized. The illness is characterized by the acute onset of shoulder girdle pain without constitutional symptoms. The pain persists for 1 to 2 weeks, then subsides, with the development of weakness and atrophy in the affected muscles. Good recovery usually occurs but may take up to three years. There is no effective treatment. Since this condition may masquerade as bursitis, cervical disc disease, or other conditions commonly seen by general physicians, it is important to recognize this disorder.