TOS (Thoracic Outlet Syndrome) is a condition that impacts the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet, which is the space between the neck and the armpit. The syndrome occurs when the nerves and blood vessels that run through this area are compressed or pressed. This can cause a variety of TOS symptoms, including:
- Neck, shoulder, and arm discomfort
- Hand tingling, numbness, or weakness
- Hand swelling or discoloration
- Reduced grip strength
- Arm and shoulder range of motion is limited.
- Tenderness or pain in the chest
Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
There are a number of factors, including the following reasons, that have the potential to contribute to the development of TOS:
- Physical activities that involve repetitive motions, such as typing or playing a musical instrument
- Poor posture
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Structural problems, such as an extra rib or a cervical rib
- Injuries or trauma to the neck, shoulder, or arm
- Arthritis
Diagnosing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
TOS can be hard to figure out because its symptoms often look like those of other conditions, like carpal tunnel syndrome or tennis elbow. A doctor will usually do a physical exam to diagnose TOS.
This physical exam will include tests to check the strength, sensation, and range of motion in the body parts that are affected. Imaging tests, such as an X-ray, CT scan, or MRI, may also be performed to help confirm the diagnosis.
How to Prevent Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
To lower your risk of TOS, it’s important to have good posture, stay at a healthy weight, and avoid doing repetitive motions that could put pressure on the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet.
Getting regular exercise and stretching can also help prevent TOS because it makes your neck, shoulder, and arm more flexible and strong.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Exercises & Postures
TOS can be managed in a number of ways, one of which is through the use of exercises and postures that can help alleviate symptoms and improve the range of motion.
Some exercises that can help manage TOS include shoulder blade squeezes, scapular retraction, and arm raises. These exercises are meant to strengthen the muscles in the shoulder and upper back, which will relieve pressure on the nerves and blood vessels.
In addition to exercises, paying attention to posture can also help manage TOS. This means avoiding positions that put a strain on the neck and shoulders, such as hunching over a computer for extended periods of time. Practicing good posture, such as sitting up straight with the shoulders back, can help reduce the symptoms of TOS.
Living with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Tips for Daily Use
For those who are living with TOS, there are several steps that can be taken to manage symptoms and improve daily function. These may include:
- Practicing good posture
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Avoiding repetitive motions that may worsen symptoms
- Incorporating regular exercise and stretching into your routine
- Using assistive devices, such as wrist splints or ergonomic keyboards, to reduce pressure on the thoracic outlet
- Seeking treatment from a doctor or physical therapist to manage symptoms and improve overall function
Treatment Options for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
The plan for treating TOS will depend on what causes the syndrome and how bad the symptoms are. In many cases, conservative treatments like physical therapy, painkillers, and changes in lifestyle are enough to ease symptoms. If these measures are not effective, more invasive treatments, such as surgery, may be necessary.
- Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Surgery
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). This decision is typically made after conservative measures such as physical therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes have failed to provide results or relief to the person in question.
Surgery for TOS aims to relieve the pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that are causing symptoms. Surgical options include removing the first rib, rerouting the blood vessels, and removing or releasing soft tissue that is pressing on the nerves.
The specific surgical approach will depend on the underlying cause of TOS and the specific symptoms experienced by the patient. Following surgery, you will probably and most typically undergo physical therapy and rehab to regain strength and mobility.
Even though surgery is more of a major intervention, it can help relieve TOS symptoms for a long time. Patients should talk to their reconstructive surgeon about the pros and cons of surgery to figure out what the best course of treatment is for them.
Dr Burak Professional Reconstructive TOS Surgeries
Dr. Burak Sercan will answer all of your questions about TOS and how to prevent, treat, and live with it. In some cases, arm surgery might be an option, which is a very critical decision for many people. Get in touch with us right away on our Email , Phone, or Contact Us page for the best prices and health services available.
