What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

It is a group of disorders in which certain blood vessels or nerves are compressed. This syndrome affects the space between the thoracic outlet i.e. first rib and collarbone. It can cause pain in the shoulders as well as the neck.

What are the types of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

There are 3 major types of thoracic outlet syndrome namely:

• Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome: It is the most common type of thoracic outlet syndrome characterized by the compression of the brachial plexus i.e. nerves descending from the spinal cord and responsible for movements and sensations the shoulder, arm, and hand.
• Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome: This is a condition in which one or more veins or arteries of the thoracic outlet present beneath the collarbone are compressed.
• Nonspecific-type thoracic outlet syndrome: This condition is also known as disputed thoracic outlet syndrome. Patients suffering from this condition experience chronic pain in the thoracic outlet area which worsens with activity, but a specific cause of this pain is undeterminable.

What are the causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Major causes of this condition are:

• Physical trauma to the thoracic outlet
• Anatomical defects such as the presence of an extra rib in the individual
• Poor posture
• Repetitive activities such as involvement in sports
• Pregnancy

Symptoms and Complications >>

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References:

• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Mayo Clinic. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thoracic-outlet-syndrome/symptoms-causes/syc-20353988 Accessed on June 14th, 2020.
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Cleveland Clinic. Available at: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17553-thoracic-outlet-syndrome-tos Accessed on June 14th, 2020.
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Healthline. Available at: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/thoracic-outlet-syndrome Accessed on June 14th, 2020.
• Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Healthline. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/thoracic-outlet-syndrome Accessed on June 14th, 2020.

Disclaimer:

“The content of this publication has been developed by a third party content providerwho are clinicians and/or medical writers and/or experts. The information contained herein is for educational purpose only and we request you to please consult a Registered Medical Practitioner or Doctor before deciding the appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan.”