Have you recently been diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome? At Elite HP, we know how important it is to fully understand your injury and the path to recovery. In this article, we'll guide you through thoracic outlet syndrome, its causes, diagnosis, and treatment.

What Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is an entrapment of either your nerves or your arteries that go through your shoulder. Most commonly, it is an entrapment of the brachial plexus as it passes from the neck into the shoulder through certain muscles. 

This injury can occur due to prolonged periods of sitting at a desk in a forward shoulder position or due to repeated forceful trauma, such as in sports like CrossFit.

How To Diagnose Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Diagnosing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome accurately is a vital step towards a successful treatment plan. This condition is unique in that it can present itself in two different forms, arterial thoracic outlet syndrome and nerve thoracic outlet syndrome. 

Let's delve deeper into these two forms and learn about two tests — Allen's test and Adson's test, which can help pinpoint your condition.

Arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome results from the compression of the subclavian artery, causing a reduced blood flow to the arm. This may lead to pain, coldness, and paleness in the arm and hand, and sometimes even tissue damage.

Allen's Test

Allen's test is a straightforward method you can use at home to check for signs of arterial thoracic outlet syndrome. Here's how to perform this test:

• Raise the arm on the side you suspect the condition and open and close your hand quickly for about a minute.

• Immediately after, lower the arm and observe the colour of your palm.

• A positive result is indicated if the palm remains pale for a few seconds, signifying reduced arterial blood flow to the hand.

Nerve Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Nerve thoracic outlet syndrome, the more common of the two, results from compression of the brachial plexus nerves. This can cause a range of symptoms such as aching pain in the neck, shoulder, and arm, numbness, and weakness of the hand.

Adson's Test

Adson's test is another simple at-home test used to check for signs of nerve thoracic outlet syndrome. Here are the steps to perform it:

• Sit or stand upright. Extend your affected arm at your side with the thumb pointing upwards.

• Take a deep breath and hold it, then turn your head towards the affected side.

• A positive result is indicated if you feel numbness or tingling in your arm, or if you lose your radial pulse (the pulse on the thumb side of your wrist).

These two tests can provide you with helpful insights into your condition and guide you on your next steps. However, they are not a definitive diagnosis. To confirm your condition, we recommend seeking professional help from a Brisbane physiotherapist.

Treatment for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

When it comes to treating Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS), the approach depends largely on the severity of your condition, the type of TOS (arterial or nerve), and your individual health profile. The primary aim is to relieve compression and restore normal function, and this can be achieved through a variety of methods. Let's discuss some common treatment approaches:

Physical Therapy

Often, the first line of treatment for TOS, especially in cases of nerve thoracic outlet syndrome, is physical therapy. This form of treatment is spearheaded by professional physiotherapists who work with you to create a personalised plan targeting the specific muscles and areas affected by your condition.

Therapeutic Exercises

In most cases, your physiotherapist will guide you through a series of exercises designed to stretch and strengthen the muscles surrounding the thoracic outlet. These exercises are crucial for improving posture, enhancing mobility, and reducing nerve or artery compression. If you are local, our Brisbane physiotherapists can do this with you.

Manual Therapy

Manual therapy is another aspect of physical therapy where your physio applies hands-on techniques to manipulate your muscles and joints. This can help to improve the range of motion and reduce compression on the nerves and blood vessels.

Lifestyle Modifications

In many cases, simple lifestyle changes can have a significant impact on the management and recovery from TOS. This can include modifications to your workplace ergonomics, changes in your sleeping habits, or tweaks in the way you perform certain activities. A Brisbane physio can guide you through these adjustments to ensure they effectively contribute to your recovery.

Medication and Surgical Interventions

For some, medication may be used to manage pain and inflammation associated with TOS. In more severe cases where non-invasive treatments do not provide relief, surgical interventions may be necessary to decompress the area. It's important to remember that these options should always be discussed with a healthcare professional.\

Remember, an early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in managing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. If you suspect that you're experiencing symptoms related to this condition, consider reaching out to our Brisbane physiotherapy clinic at Elite HP. Our team of dedicated physiotherapists is on standby to help you navigate your treatment options and get you on the path to recovery.

Conclusion

With the right knowledge and treatment plan, thoracic outlet syndrome doesn't have to limit your daily activities. These exercises should guide you through your injury and help you on your way to recovery. However, if you find you need more support, don't hesitate to seek professional help.

For more advice and personalised treatment plans, visit us at Elite HP, a leading Brisbane physiotherapy clinic. Our Brisbane physiotherapists are highly trained and experienced in handling various injuries, including thoracic outlet syndrome. If you're looking for a dedicated Brisbane physio to help you on your recovery journey, reach out to us at Elite HP today.

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