Definition Thoracic outlet syndrome includes those disorders that result in compression of nerves or blood vessels supplying the arms.
What is going on in the body? The thoracic outlet is the area of the body between the collarbone and the rib cage. Veins, nerves, and arteries come through this opening. When the blood vessels or nerves are compressed or squeezed, the pressure causes the symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome.
What are the signs and symptoms of the disease? Symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome include:
shoulder pain that increases in certain positions
arm pain
hand pain, especially in the ring finger and little finger
What can be done to prevent the disease? Although thoracic outlet syndrome cannot always be prevented, the following measures may help:
good posture
strengthening exercises for the muscles in and near the thoracic outlet
proper technique for repetitive heavy lifting
How is the disease diagnosed? Thoracic outlet syndrome can sometimes be diagnosed by a history and physical examination. In many cases, however, the symptoms are vague and difficult to track down. A chest x-ray may show an extra rib. A nerve conduction velocity test can measure abnormal nerve transmission in the arm. Doppler studies may also be done to check the blood flow through the outlet. Other special tests may be done to check whether the blood vessels beside the nerve are being pinched. Many times all of these tests are negative. In these cases, the history and physical examination is used to make the diagnosis.
Other tests may be ordered to rule out problems such as neck injuries. This may include x-rays or an MRI scan of the neck.
What are the long-term effects of the disease? If physiotherapy, exercises, and good posture reduce the symptoms, then the outlook is good. If symptoms do not go away, then surgery may be needed.
What are the risks to others? Thoracic outlet syndrome is not contagious and poses no risk to others.
What are the treatments for the disease? Treatment of thoracic outlet syndrome focuses on relief of the symptoms caused by compression of the nerves and blood vessels. A person may need physiotherapy as well as exercises to strengthen the muscles of the shoulder, neck, and upper arm. Practicing good posture and good work habits may also reduce symptoms. This includes learning the proper way to sit, type, and talk on the phone.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication or prescription analgesia may also be needed. Surgery may be needed to remove the first rib or restructure the muscles of the thoracic outlet.
What are the side effects of the treatments? Side effects will depend on the treatment used. Medications can cause stomach upset, rash, or an allergic reaction. Side effects to surgery include a risk of bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anaesthesia.
What happens after treatment for the disease? A person may have to continue exercises as long as he or she has symptoms. If a person has surgery, then physiotherapy may be needed to strengthen the muscles of the shoulder and arm. A person may be limited on range of motion, heavy lifting, and strenuous exercise while recovering from surgery.
How is the disease monitored? A person can monitor symptoms based on the intensity of pain, weakness, and ability to move the arm and shoulder. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the doctor.
Author: Eileen McLaughlin, RN, BSN Reviewer: HealthAnswers Australia Medical Review Panel Editor: Dr David Taylor, Chief Medical Officer HealthAnswers Australia Last Updated: 1/10/2001 Contributors Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
