About Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome

What is Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome?

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) is a condition caused by compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet, which is the area between the base of the neck and the armpit. Symptoms of NTOS include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand. Treatment for NTOS may include physical therapy, medications, and/or surgery.

What are the symptoms of Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome?

The most common symptoms of Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome include:

-Pain in the neck, shoulder, and arm
-Numbness and Tingling in the arm and hand
-Weakness in the arm and hand
-A feeling of heaviness in the arm
-Pain in the chest
-Headaches
-Difficulty breathing
-Fatigue
-Coldness in the arm and hand
-Swelling in the arm and hand

What are the causes of Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome?

Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) is caused by compression of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that runs from the neck to the shoulder and arm. This compression can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

• Poor posture

• Repetitive motions

• Trauma or injury

• Anatomical abnormalities, such as a cervical rib or an extra rib

• Tumors

• Scar tissue

• Inflammation of the muscles or tendons in the neck and shoulder area

• Congenital defects, such as an extra rib or an abnormally shaped rib cage

What are the treatments for Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome?

1. Physical therapy: Physical therapy can help to improve posture, strengthen the muscles of the shoulder and neck, and improve flexibility.

2. Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help to reduce inflammation and pain.

3. Surgery: Surgery may be recommended if other treatments are not successful. Surgery can involve removing the first rib, cutting the scalene muscles, or releasing the pectoralis minor muscle.

4. Postural correction: Postural correction can help to reduce the pressure on the thoracic outlet and improve symptoms.

5. Ergonomic modifications: Ergonomic modifications can help to reduce the strain on the neck and shoulder muscles.

6. Bracing: Bracing can help to reduce the pressure on the thoracic outlet and improve symptoms.

What are the risk factors for Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome?

1. Repetitive activities that involve the arms and shoulders, such as typing, playing a musical instrument, or lifting weights.

2. Trauma to the neck or shoulder, such as a car accident or a fall.

3. Poor posture.

4. Being born with an extra rib or an abnormally shaped rib.

5. Having a family history of thoracic outlet syndrome.

6. Being female.

7. Being tall or having a long neck.

8. Having a job that requires repetitive overhead motions.

9. Having a job that requires prolonged sitting or standing in one position.

10. Having a job that requires carrying heavy loads.

Is there a cure/medications for Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome?

Yes, there are treatments available for neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome. These include physical therapy, medications to reduce inflammation and pain, and in some cases, surgery. Physical therapy can help to improve posture, strengthen the muscles in the neck and shoulder, and improve range of motion. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and muscle relaxants can help to reduce pain and inflammation. Surgery may be recommended in cases where the symptoms are severe and do not respond to other treatments.