Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Contact UsWhat Is A Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)?
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) refers to a group of conditions that occur when there is compression or irritation of nerves, blood vessels, or both, as they pass through a narrow space in the neck and shoulder region known as the thoracic outlet. This can cause pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, and other symptoms in the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand.
Types Of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome:
TOS can be classified into three types based on the underlying cause of compression:
- Neurogenic TOS: This type of TOS occurs when the nerves that pass through the thoracic outlet are compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arm and hand.
- Arterial TOS: This type of TOS occurs when the subclavian artery, which supplies blood to the arm, is compressed, leading to symptoms such as coldness, paleness, and weakness in the arm.
- Venous TOS: This type of TOS occurs when the subclavian vein, which carries blood from the arm back to the heart, is compressed, leading to symptoms such as swelling, pain, and discoloration in the arm.
What Does Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Feel Like?
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) can cause a variety of symptoms, which can vary depending on the type of TOS and the severity of the condition.
In neurogenic TOS, which is the most common type, the compression of nerves in the thoracic outlet can cause symptoms such as:
- Pain or discomfort in the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand.
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers or hand.
- Weakness or fatigue in the arm or hand.
How Is TOS Diagnosed?
Diagnosing thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Here are some of the methods used to diagnose TOS:
- Medical history: Your doctor will ask you questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any activities or injuries that may have contributed to your condition.
- Physical examination: Your doctor will examine your neck, shoulder, arm, and hand for signs of pain, weakness, numbness, or tingling. They may also check your pulse, blood pressure, and range of motion.
- Diagnostic tests: Depending on the suspected type of TOS, your doctor may recommend one or more diagnostic tests, such as:
- X-rays, which can help identify any structural abnormalities in the neck and shoulder area.
- MRI or CT scans, which can provide detailed images of the soft tissues in the neck and shoulder area.
- Electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, which can measure the electrical activity in the affected nerves and muscles.
- Doppler ultrasound, which can help assess blood flow in the affected arm and identify any blockages or abnormalities in the subclavian artery or vein.
How we take care of your Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
At Balancia, we provide compassionate care for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) to alleviate discomfort and improve your quality of life. Here’s how we take care of your TOS:
- Personalized Assessment: We conduct a thorough evaluation to understand the unique factors contributing to your TOS symptoms.
- Tailored Treatment Plan: Based on your assessment, we create a customized treatment plan designed to alleviate discomfort and improve function.
- Comprehensive Physical Therapy: Our skilled therapists provide targeted exercises and manual techniques to strengthen muscles, improve flexibility, and alleviate nerve compression.
- Pain Management: We offer various strategies to manage pain associated with TOS, including medication management and modalities such as heat or cold therapy.
- Patient Education: We empower you with knowledge about TOS, its causes, and self-care techniques to manage symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.
Request Appointment
Availability
Monday - Sunday
Hours
9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Phone
(604)968-6557
Address
4536 Clinton Street, Burnaby, BC V5J 2K5, Canada