What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome? Everything you need to know
Posted by lsmchiropractic on December 10th, 2018
Most of us do a desk job where we need to sit for long hours working on the computer. This is the real reason, why the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which causes shoulder, neck or chest pains becomes a common issue over the past decade. Along with the longer sitting that contributes to the poor posture, TOS mainly affects active sportsman, athletes who use hands in a repetitive manner while exercising. This rising cases of TOS have made it a major factor of medical concern. Hence to help patient diagnose and treat TOS, we have discussed everything you need in this article.
What exactly is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
The Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a painful condition which causes swelling on the affected area. TOS is caused when the nerve and the blood vessel connecting collarbone to the first rib gets disrupted due to the health hazard. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Fitchburg is basically a comprehensive term that describes three interrelated syndromes caused by the compression of nerves (especially neck, chest, shoulder and arms).
Type of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome:
The three type of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Fitchburg has unique symptoms however they are interrelated in many respects.
1. Neurogenic TOS: This is the most common syndrome of all. About 85 to 95% of the patient suffering from TOS is diagnosed with Neurogenic TOS. As the name indicates the syndrome is caused by the neural compression between spine to limbs.
2. Venous TOS: The type of syndrome is caused by the compression of Subclavian vein or artery extending between the clavicle and first rib.
3. Arterial TOS: This is the rarest case of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which is caused, by the compression of the Subclavian artery. This affects the patient severely, as it targets the main artery that connects chest to the arm.
Signs and Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome:
TOS can bring unbearable pain with the group of complex symptoms. The most common symptoms include:
Neck/ shoulder/ armpit pain
Numbness and tingling on figures
Pin and needle on hands
Weakness in neck/arm/shoulder
Paleness in palm or pinky fingers
However, this symptom varies from person to person, depending on the type of syndrome he/she suffers from. If diagnosed any sign of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Fitchburg or any other place, visit the specialized person soon.
Diagnose and treatment of TOS:
Diagnose of TOS is suggested by the experienced doctors, chiropractors and medical practitioners by carefully examining the symptoms of the syndrome. Doctor’s examination is further supported by the advance radiology test and nerve conduction. This includes electrical tests, EMG, X-ray etc.
After examining carefully, doctors and chiropractors of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Fitchburg treat the patient using physical therapy and exercise to improve the neck and shoulder motion. The doctor will also suggest the best posture to improve blood circulation. Moreover, if the pain persists, they also recommend the most appropriate medicine to reduce pain and inflammation.
