What is thoracic outlet syndrome caused by?

What is thoracic outlet syndrome caused by?

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.

What are the symptoms of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome?

Symptoms of Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

• Pain or weakness in the shoulder and arm.
• Tingling or discomfort in the fingers.
• Arm that tires quickly.
• Atrophy — shrinking and weakness — of the pad of the thumb, the muscle of the palm that leads to the thumb; this is quite rare.

Is thoracic outlet syndrome progressive?

TOS is a progressive condition marked by the impingement of the nerves and blood vessels that feed the thoracic outlet. Compression of the subclavian muscle, which is known to compress the subclavian artery, reduces bloodflow to the carotid arteries and the vertebral arteries.

What happens if thoracic outlet is left untreated?

Thoracic outlet syndrome can cause neck and shoulder pain, numbness and tingling of the fingers and a weak grip. If left untreated, TOS can lead to increased pain and decreased function. Certain forms of the disease can cause serious blood clots.

What is the best sleeping position for thoracic outlet syndrome?

Try sleeping on one side, or sleep without a firm pillow. If symptoms are caused from overdeveloped neck mus- cles, reduce exercises that build the neck muscles.

What is the prognosis for thoracic outlet syndrome?

About prognosis: The ‘prognosis’ of Thoracic outlet syndrome usually refers to the likely outcome of Thoracic outlet syndrome. The prognosis of Thoracic outlet syndrome may include the duration of Thoracic outlet syndrome, chances of complications of Thoracic outlet syndrome, probable outcomes, prospects for recovery,…

Who is most at risk for thoracic outlet syndrome?

Who is most at risk for thoracic outlet syndrome? Thoracic outlet syndrome is more common in people who are overweight. It can also develop in athletes, such as swimmers or baseball pitchers, who perform repetitive activities. Thoracic outlet syndrome is also more common in women.

Is there a cure for thoracic outlet syndrome?

Thoracic outlet syndrome is caused by other conditions, such as congenital defects, injuries, and disorders of the spine. Therefore, there is no real cure for this disorder, as it is a symptom of other disorders. Depending on the underlying cause, however, you can help prevent thoracic outlet syndrome if you are predisposed to this disorder.

What nerves are affected by thoracic outlet syndrome?

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) consists of a group of distinct disorders that affect the nerves in the brachial plexus (nerves that pass into the arms from the neck) and various nerves and blood vessels between the base of the neck and axilla (armpit).