A face-to-face consultation will allow for thorough investigation.
For Clarity and a Professional Assessment,
Book a Time to See Us
Common Conditions
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a relatively rare condition but is commonly missed or misdiagnosed. It involves compression to the nerve or blood vessels deep within the shoulder and neck.
Our team are skilled at screening for TOS and providing strategies for this condition. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome commonly presents between the ages of 20 and 40 years. Symptoms will vary (depending on the cause) from vague shoulder and arm pain to a “dead arm” sensation with the arm feeling like it “goes to sleep.” Other symptoms can include blood flow issues with colour changes in your hand or forearm.
There are two distinct types of the problem. One is when there is a blood flow problem in or out of the arm. The other type is when nerves are compressed by structures in and around the shoulder and neck. Both types can cause different symptoms.
Common
Symptoms
- A feeling of weakness when performing activities above the head.
- Loss of colour to the hand or a purple tinge after repetitive activity.
- The arm feels ‘heavy’ even at rest.
How Can Our Hand Therapists Help?
We are able to perform a very comprehensive assessment to determine if you do in fact have TOS. We might consider asking you to see a GP or specialist to have further investigations if you have not already had them, guiding you in the right direction for diagnosis.
We can devise a custom management program to treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome conservatively. Core principles of a home program are learning the key strategies (Crosby & Wehbe, 2004) which are posture for function, positioning your body to prevent pressure on the compressed nerve, breathing techniques, relaxation strategies and a graded / tailored exercise program.
Interesting Fact
Some people are born with an extra rib called a cervical rib. This can be linked to cause Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. A simple chest X-ray can usually determine if you have one. In some cases of severe Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, the extra rib and the first rib are surgically removed.
Reference:
Crosby, C. A., & Wehbe, M. A. (2004). Conservative treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome. Hand Clinics, 20(1), 43-49.
Examples of
Solutions to Try
- Sleep on your non-affected side with a pillow under your affected arm for improved bedtime comfort.
- Avoid tasks above your head. Hang clothes on a clothes horse or position commonly used items in your home at chest height instead of overhead.
- Lying on a hard surface with a small rolled up hand towel along the length of your spine for 20 minutes a day. This might help to take pressure off the compressed nerve or blood vessel. (Note: Do not attempt this if you have any other underlying back conditions - our therapists will assess the suitability of all exercise and positioning strategies).
While these are general examples, our hand therapists will help match solutions best suited to your condition and specific needs.
For Clarity and a Professional Assessment,
We Help you Understand and Manage Pain
By providing real and honest information
- Customised solution to your actual needs
- Unbiased and independent opinion
- We consider multiple solutions
- We help you manage discomfort
Understanding, Knowing and
Managing Starts with a Consult
Some of the
Most Common
Upper Limb
Issues
