


Physical therapy exercises may help relieve the pressure on nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet. Physical therapy is the most common form of initial treatment for TOS and strengthens muscles, promotes better posture and helps to increase range of motion of injured shoulders and neck.While thoracic outlet syndrome typically cannot be prevented, treatment options may include: Physicians diagnose TOS after a complete physical examination and may refer patients for evaluation by a neurologist. Symptoms normally begin after a car accident, or other physically traumatic event. Often, patients with nonspecific-type TOS suffer from a chronic pain in the thoracic outlet that worsens with physical activity however, doctors are unable to determine the cause of the pain. Some physicians report it as a common disorder, while others do not believe the condition exists. Nonspecific-type thoracic outlet syndrome is also known as disputed thoracic outlet syndrome.Treatment to restore blood circulation is essential. Symptoms include the hand becoming numb, cold, pain or discoloration, pain or soreness of the fingers, and poor blood circulation to the arms, hands and fingers. Both conditions are dangerous, because the blood clot can travel to the hand and block blood circulation. The subclavian artery – the main artery to the arm – either becomes enlarged, forming an aneurysm and a blood clot in the wall of the artery, or, the artery narrows and a blood clot will form inside the artery. Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome is the least common type of TOS, but is the most serious.

Veins at the front of the chest may look swollen. Symptoms may include heaviness and weakness of the arms and neck, and swelling of the arms, hands and fingers. This type of TOS develops unexpectedly, typically occurring immediately after rigorous exercise of the arms.

Repetitive shoulder or arm movement from sports, such as baseball, golf, swimming and others.Tumors or large lymph nodes in underarm area or upper chest.Repetitive injuries from carrying a heavy load.Traumatic event, such as a car accident.Factors that may increase risk of developing thoracic outlet syndrome include: This compression occurs between the collarbone and first rib or between the muscles of your neck and shoulder.Īn extra cervical rib or fractured collarbone can reduce the space available for nerves and blood vessels, resulting in thoracic outlet syndrome. Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) consists of a group of disorders that occur when the nerves and/or blood vessels of the thoracic outlet become compressed and irritated causing pain in the shoulder, neck and arm. The thoracic outlet is the space between the lower neck and upper chest.
