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Symptoms
Symptoms
The Etiology of TOS is compression of the subclavian vein, artery, and/or nerves of the brachial between the color bone and the first rib.
Depending on which structure is compressed the patients can experience massive swellings of the arm due to clots in the veins. If the nerve is being compressed some patients can’t lift their hand above their head without experiencing pain.
This is common in younger and middle aged patients. When the arteries are compressed it can cause problems in the hand with lack of blood flow.
Treatment of TOS is surgical and/or physical therapy specific for this pathology. If you have experienced pain in your upper extremity by doing mundane everyday tasks you maybe having symptoms of neurogenic TOS. Please make an appointment to see a vascular surgeon if you have symptoms of TOS.
Causes
The cause of the compression varies and could involve:
Anatomical defects
Poor posture
Trauma
Repetitive activity
Pressure on your joints
Diagnosis
Diagnosing thoracic outlet syndrome could be difficult because the symptoms and their severity could change significantly among people with the disorder. To diagnose thoracic outlet syndrome, your primary care physician might review your symptoms and medical history and conduct a physical examination.