Approximately 200,000 cases of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.
TOS is the compression of nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet. This passage lies between the neck and the first rib. It houses the brachial plexus, a crucial network of nerves.
When TOS disrupts the function of the brachial plexus, it can lead to serious symptoms. Among these are shoulder, arm, and neck pain. If left untreated, these symptoms can be debilitating.
Understanding thoracic outlet syndrome nerve compression and how it affects the brachial plexus is the first step to treatment. In this post, we’ll help you get to the bottom of your nerve pain and provide some tips for a better quality of life with TOS. Keep reading for more information!
Understanding the Brachial Plexus
The brachial plexus is a crucial neural network. It’s formed by the merging of spinal nerves from the cervical and thoracic regions of the spinal cord.
It supplies sensory and motor innervation to the upper limbs, enabling:
- Movement
- Sensation
- Function
If something disrupts or harms this network of nerves, it can cause many problems.
Impact of TOS on the Brachial Plexus
Neurogenic TOS happens when the nerves in the brachial plexus get squished. This causes pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arms.
Vascular TOS is when blood vessels get squeezed, making it hard for blood to flow properly. This can lead to cold hands, change in color, and even blood clots.
Sometimes, both nerve and blood vessel problems can happen at the same time.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Nerve Symptoms
Individuals with TOS affecting the brachial plexus often experience a variety of symptoms. These may vary in severity but can include:
- Persistent neck, arm, and shoulder pain, sometimes radiating down to the fingers
- Patients might feel tingling sensations or numbness in the fingers, hand, and forearm
- Muscle weakness and reduced grip strength can occur, hindering daily activities
- Altered sensations, such as heightened sensitivity or reduced ability to sense touch
- Cold hands, fingers, and a bluish discoloration
Not every patient will present all these symptoms. Yet, if you have both nerve and blood vessel compression, you may experience all of them.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosing TOS with physical examination can be challenging since it mimics other conditions. Doctors can identify it with the help of X-rays, MRIs, and nerve conduction studies.
Treatment approaches depend on the underlying cause of TOS. However, physical therapy is often part of the treatment plan. It involves using exercises and stretches to:
- Improve posture
- Build muscle strength
- Increase flexibility
- Alleviate pressure on the brachial plexus
Another great idea is seeing a chiropractor since alignment issues are often the root of TOS. You can find chiropractors at mobilitypluschiropractic.com.
Don’t Let TOS Pain Take Over
If you think you may have thoracic outlet syndrome nerve compression, it’s best to seek medical care. The proper diagnosis can lead to treatment that reduces your symptoms and gives you back your life. So, don’t wait another day and talk to your doctor.
If you would like to learn more great tips, be sure to visit the health section of our website!