Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a condition that occurs when the nerves or blood vessels between your collarbone and first rib (the thoracic outlet) become compressed. This can lead to pain, numbness, and tingling in your shoulders, neck, and arms. At Al Resalah Specialty Clinic in Sharjah, we provide expert orthopedic consultation and advanced physiotherapy to diagnose and treat TOS, helping you find relief and regain function.

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a group of disorders caused by the compression of nerves (neurogenic), veins (venous), or arteries (arterial) in the thoracic outlet. The most common form is neurogenic TOS, which involves compression of the brachial plexus—a network of nerves that controls muscle movements and sensations in the arm and hand.

Common Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

TOS can be caused by a variety of factors, often involving anatomical abnormalities or injuries. Common causes include:

• Physical Trauma: Accidents, such as whiplash from a car crash, can cause internal changes that compress the thoracic outlet.

• Repetitive Injuries: Repetitive motions from certain jobs or sports (e.g., throwing a baseball) can cause wear and tear on tissues, leading to compression.

• Anatomical Defects: Being born with an extra rib (cervical rib) or having an unusually tight fibrous band can narrow the thoracic outlet.

• Poor Posture: Slouching or holding your head in a forward position can compress the area.

• Pregnancy: The increased weight and hormonal changes during pregnancy can put pressure on the joints, contributing to TOS.

Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

The symptoms of TOS depend on whether the compressed structures are nerves or blood vessels.

Symptoms of Neurogenic TOS (Nerve Compression)

• Numbness or tingling in your fingers or hand.

• Pain or aches in your neck, shoulder, or hand.

• Weakening grip.

• Decreased size of the muscles at the base of your thumb.

Symptoms of Vascular TOS (Blood Vessel Compression)

• Discoloration of your hand (bluish or pale).

• Swelling of your arm or hand.

• Weak pulse in the affected arm.

• Coldness in your fingers, hand, or arm.

• Feeling of heaviness in the arm.

Orthopedic Consultation and Treatment at Al Resalah

At Al Resalah Specialty Clinic, our expert team is dedicated to providing a precise diagnosis and an effective, personalized treatment plan for TOS.

Initial Consultation and Diagnosis

Your journey to recovery starts with a detailed orthopedic consultation. Our specialists will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical exam, including tests to provoke symptoms by moving your arms and neck. We may also use diagnostic tests such as X-rays, MRI, or nerve conduction studies to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.

Advanced Physiotherapy Treatment

For most cases of TOS, advanced physiotherapy is the first line of treatment. Our skilled physiotherapists will design a program to:

• Strengthen your shoulder muscles: This helps pull the shoulders back and open up the thoracic outlet.

• Improve your range of motion and posture: Through specific exercises and stretches.

• Provide pain relief: Using techniques like therapeutic massage and manual therapy.

• Educate you on proper ergonomics: We’ll teach you how to adjust your work and daily activities to avoid postures that exacerbate TOS.

We are committed to providing the highest standard of care in Sharjah, helping you find lasting relief from the discomfort of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.