Thoracic outlet syndrome
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The thoracic outlet is the space between your collarbone (clavicle) and your first rib. This narrow passageway is crowded with blood vessels, nerves and muscles.
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a group of disorders that occur when blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and your first rib (thoracic outlet) are compressed. This can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers.
Common causes of thoracic outlet syndrome include physical trauma from a car accident, repetitive injuries from job- or sports-related activities, certain anatomical defects (such as having an extra rib), and pregnancy. Sometimes doctors can’t determine the cause of thoracic outlet syndrome.
Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome usually involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. Most people improve with these approaches. In some cases, however, your doctor may recommend surgery.
Thoracic outlet syndrome care at Mayo Clinic
There are a number of types of thoracic outlet syndrome, including:
Thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms can vary, depending on which structures are compressed. When nerves are compressed, signs and symptoms of neurological thoracic outlet syndrome include:
Signs and symptoms of vascular thoracic outlet syndrome can include:
See your doctor if you consistently experience any of the signs and symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome.
In general, the cause of thoracic outlet syndrome is compression of the nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet, just under your collarbone (clavicle). The cause of the compression varies and can include:
There are several risk factors that seem to increase the risk of thoracic outlet syndrome, including:
If your symptoms haven’t been treated early, you may experience progressive nerve damage, and you may need surgery. Doctors recommend surgery to treat thoracic outlet syndrome only when other treatments haven’t been effective. Surgery has higher risks than do other treatments and may not always treat your symptoms.
Thoracic outlet syndrome that goes untreated for years can cause permanent neurological damage, so it’s important to have your symptoms evaluated and treated early, or take steps to prevent the disorder.
If you’re susceptible to thoracic outlet compression, avoid repetitive movements and lifting heavy objects. If you’re overweight, you can prevent or relieve symptoms associated with thoracic outlet syndrome by losing weight.
Even if you don’t have symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome, avoid carrying heavy bags over your shoulder, because this can increase pressure on the thoracic outlet. Stretch daily, and perform exercises that keep your shoulder muscles strong.
Thoracic outlet syndrome care at Mayo Clinic
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Thoracic outlet syndrome
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