The thoracic outlet is a small space between the collarbone (clavicle) and the first rib. Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a group of disorders that involve compression, injury, or irritation of the nerves, blood vessels, or veins in the thoracic outlet. This can cause pain in the shoulders and neck and numbness in the fingers.
The cause of the compression can vary and may include the following. Inherited defects present at birth, including a cervical rib—an extra rib located above the first rib—or an abnormally tight fibrous band connecting the spine to the rib. Poor posture, drooping the shoulders or holding the head in a forward position can cause compression in the thoracic outlet area. Trauma, such as a car accident, can cause internal changes that then compress the nerves in the thoracic outlet. Repetitive activity, doing the same activity over and over can wear on the body’s tissues. You may notice symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome if your job requires continuous repetition of a movement, such as typing on a computer for extended periods, working on an assembly line, or stocking shelves and repeatedly lifting things above your head. Another cause is the carrying of heavy shoulder bags or briefcases. In some cases, your health care provider may not be able to determine the exact cause of symptoms.
The symptoms and intensity of thoracic outlet syndrome vary between individuals and depend on the location of the compression site. When nerves are compressed, signs and symptoms often include: Numbness or tingling in the neck, shoulder, arm, or fingers, an ache in the arm or hand, weakening grip, and/or difficulty with fine-motor tasks.
Compression of one or more veins and arteries can result in symptoms such as bluish discoloration of the hand, swelling or puffiness in the arm or hand, coldness of hands or fingers, throbbing lump near the collarbone (clavicle), deep pain in the neck and shoulder region that may increase at night, and arms and hands that are easily fatigued.
Since TOS doesn’t have unique symptoms, it can be difficult to diagnose. A detailed health history and thorough physical exam are the most important components in establishing the diagnosis of TOS. Your chiropractor may also recommend X-rays, MRI, laboratory tests, or a nerve conduction velocity test if he or she suspects TOS. It’s important for your doctor to differentiate TOS from other conditions, like carpal tunnel syndrome, shoulder tendinitis, and herniated cervical disc, just to name a few of the many conditions that can cause signs and symptoms.
In the vast majority of neurological TOS cases, a conservative, non-surgical approach to treatment is most effective, especially when the condition is diagnosed early. A chiropractic treatment plan for TOS may include a mix of joint mobilization/manipulation, physical therapy modalities, home stretching exercises, and soft-tissue therapy.
Patients should avoid prolonged positions that cause them to hold their arms out or overhead. For example, avoid sleeping with the arm extended up behind the head. It is also helpful to have rest periods at work to minimize fatigue. Weight reduction can be helpful for obese patients. Patients should avoid sleeping on the stomach with arms above the head. They should also avoid repetitively lifting heavy objects.
A home exercise program can be a very valuable aspect of any TOS treatment plan. Below are a few stretching exercises. All of these exercises should be performed slowly and carefully. Each position is taken to the point where a stretch, but no pain, is felt. Patients should not bounce to increase the length of their stretches in any of these positions. Be sure to consult with your doctor of chiropractic prior to starting a new exercise program. He or she can help develop an individualized program and provide instruction on proper stretching technique.
Corner Stretch – Stand facing the corner of the room (about one foot from the corner) with your hands at shoulder height, one on each wall. Lean into the corner until you feel a gentle stretch across your chest. Hold for five seconds.
Neck Stretch – Stand tall with your arms at your side. Bend your head to the left and try to touch your left ear to your left shoulder. Do not move your shoulders as you do this. Hold for five seconds. Repeat the exercise in the opposite direction.
Shoulder Rolls – Stand tall with your arms relaxed at your sides. Shrug your shoulders forward and up. Relax. Shrug your shoulders backward and up. Relax. Shrug your shoulders straight up. As you get stronger, you can hold 5- to 20-lb. weights in each hand while conducting the exercises.
Thoracic Extension – Lie face down. Clasp your hands behind your back. Lift your head and chest off the floor as high as you can while squeezing your shoulder blades together and tucking in your chin. Hold this position for a count of three seconds. Exhale as you return to the starting position.
