Unmasking the Mystery: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

If you’ve ever felt a tingling or numbness in the arms or a strange pain in your shoulders, you might have encountered thoracic outlet syndrome or TOS. It is a perplexing condition often shrouded in mystery due to the nature of its symptoms and difficulty in diagnosis.  The expert team at Pursuit Physical Therapy is here to demystify TOS and help you understand the symptoms, causes, and treatment options. 

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Definition 

Physiopedia describes thoracic outlet syndrome as having two forms: vascular and neurological. In more than 90% of cases, TOC takes a neurological form.  The body’s thoracic outlet is a narrow passageway where nerves and blood vessels exit your neck and spread out through your arms. When blood flow is disrupted in this critical area, you experience Thoracic Outlet Syndrome caused by compression.  This compression leads to a variety of symptoms. Understanding what causes this compression is the key to unlocking relief. 

Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome 

TOS can be caused by a car accident, repetitive injuries, tumors, pregnancy, and even poor posture. Thoracic outlet syndrome can be successfully diagnosed and treated with professional physical therapy in Orlando.  

Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome You Shouldn’t Ignore 

The red flags of TOS are arm pain, tingling or numbness in your hands, headaches, a pinch in the shoulder blade, cold hands, weak hand grip, chest pain when reaching up, or heavy arms. Consult a medical professional or physical therapist for a thorough examination when experiencing these symptoms.  

Rehabilitation & Management of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome 

Effective treatment and prevention of TOS are possible with strategic physical therapies and targeted exercises. Specific sleeping positions for TOS relief are taught in conjunction with long-term TOS management.  

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome FAQs 

Q: Can Thoracic Outlet Syndrome be cured?  A: Not all cases can be “cured,” but expert physical therapy intervention can alleviate most symptoms.  Q: Does thoracic outlet syndrome go away on its own? A: TOS requires knowledgeable intervention to diagnose, improve, or resolve. Symptoms generally persist without treatment.  Q: Why does my arm ache at night with TOS?  A: Certain sleeping positions can exacerbate TOS compression and symptoms. Your physical therapist can show you the proper sleeping positions to prevent this.  Q: Does weight loss help thoracic outlet syndrome? A: In some cases, losing weight can relieve pressure on nerves and blood vessels affected by TOS compression.  Q: What flares up thoracic outlet syndrome? A: Constant stress on the shoulder region, poor posture, and repetitive motion can trigger TOS flare-ups. 

Conclusion 

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can be effectively managed with proper diagnosis and strategic care. Recognizing symptoms quickly and consulting a trained physical therapist can alleviate symptoms and help you manage TOS long-term. 

Still Have Questions? We Can Help! 

If you’re feeling the pinch of thoracic outlet syndrome and need proper diagnosis and treatment, contact the experienced team at Pursuit Physical Therapy. Our specialists have in-depth knowledge of TOS and provide more than temporary fixes; we bring long-lasting relief tailored just for you.  Our advanced techniques offer real solutions that help you live optimally. We educate you on TOS and give you the tools to maintain a pain-free life.  

Contact Us  

Turn the page on thoracic outlet syndrome and enjoy restored vitality. Contact our helpful team today for more information or to schedule a private consultation.