What is a thoracic outlet injury?

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) 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 shoulder and neck pain and numbness in your fingers.

Can thoracic outlet syndrome be caused by trauma?

TOS is a compressive non-tumorous syndrome of the brachial plexus. It is possible, however, to consider as TOS the irritative and lesional plexus syndrome following trauma as long as compression (or traction) on the nerves is triggered by long-lasting pathological changes of the area after trauma.

How serious is thoracic outlet syndrome?

Is thoracic outlet syndrome serious? Although many cases of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) can’t be prevented, the condition is treatable. If left untreated, TOS can cause complications, such as: Permanent arm swelling and pain (especially in patients with venous TOS)

What are the three types of thoracic outlet syndrome?

What are the types of thoracic outlet syndrome?

• Neurogenic TOS occurs when the nerves leading from the neck to the arm (the brachial plexus) is compressed.
• Venous TOS occurs when a vein is compressed, leading to upper body thrombosis.
• Arterial TOS occurs when an artery is compressed.

What does thoracic pain feel like?

Thoracic back pain can feel like: Sharp pain localised to one spot either on the spine or to one side. General ache or throbbing pain affecting a wider area. A stiffness causing a loss of normal movement.

What does thoracic nerve pain feel like?

It may present itself as a dull, aching pain, an electric shock-like pain, or a sharp, stabbing pain. The pain may be continuous or intermittent. Since the pain is radiating to other parts of the body, it can be difficult for a person to self-diagnose and understand the true cause of their pain.

What is the test for thoracic outlet syndrome?

Ultrasound. An ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your body. It’s often the first imaging test used to help diagnose thoracic outlet syndrome. Doctors may use this test to see if you have vascular thoracic outlet syndrome or other vascular problems.

Can TOS cause stroke?

Although arterial TOS is the least common form of TOS, far behind neurogenic TOS, its complication can be the most devastating. Neurogenic TOS can result in chronic loss of neurologic function, venous TOS in local vein thrombosis. But arterial TOS can lead to limb ischemia or cerebral stroke.

Can TOS be life threatening?

While thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is not life-threatening, it can lead to complications if left untreated. Find out about the types and symptoms of TOS, who is at risk, and how to tell if your arm pain is a sign of a more serious health problem.

How long does thoracic pain take to heal?

People who sit for long periods (more than seven hours per day) or those who are less active (less than 150 minutes per week) tend to have more stiffness and pain in the thoracic spine. Trauma to the thoracic spine can cause pain which can commonly take some weeks or months to resolve.

How should I sleep with thoracic pain?

If you sleep on your side, put the pillow between your knees and draw them up slightly toward your chest. If you like to sleep on your back, try the pillow under your knees, or roll up a small towel and place it under the small of your back. Avoid sleeping on your stomach because it puts a lot of strain on your back.

What are the symptoms of thoracic spine nerve damage?

What Are the Symptoms of Thoracic Spine Nerve Damage?

• Significant leg weakness or loss of sensation.
• Loss of feeling in genitals or rectal region.
• No control of urine or stool.
• Fever and lower back pain.
• A fall or injury that caused the pain.

What is the thoracic outlet?

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.

What is the most common thoracic outlet syndrome?

This most common type of thoracic outlet syndrome is characterized by compression of the brachial plexus. The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that come from your spinal cord and control muscle movements and sensation in your shoulder, arm and hand.

How is thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) treated?

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. There are a number of types of thoracic outlet syndrome, including:

What is post-traumatic thoracic outlet syndrome (PTOs)?

Post-traumatic thoracic outlet syndrome occurs in young subjects after violent trauma. Vascular complications are frequent and severe. Treatment achieves good results but benefits may be diminished by bone or nerve involvement. MeSH terms