Physiotherapy for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Thoracic outlet syndrome is defined as compression of neurovascular structure (blood vessels or nerves) at the thoracic outlet. This condition can lead to pain in the neck and shoulder, numbness or tingling of arm and finger.
Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Trauma, Repetitive activities
- Disease
- Congenital Problem
- More women than men
- Poor posture: slouching, forward head posture
- Obesity
- Muscle hypertrophy at neck and shoulder from weight lifting or lift heavy loads
Signs and Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Vague aching pain neck
- Pain in the arm, which is shooting or burning.
- Tingling and numbness in the arm.
- Limited range of shoulder movement; Overhead activities are difficult
- Swollen, blue arm with activity is sometimes seen
- Arm tired easily
- Weakness in grip strength
Very rarely if the subclavian artery is compressed, stroke is a possibility.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome usually recovered with physiotherapy. If symptoms are worsening and severe after physiotherapy, surgery may be required.
At Physioclinic, our physiotherapist will assess your condition and implement effective treatments for your conditions, which may include:
- Pain Relief Treatment and Tissue Repair: ultrasound, electrical stimulation
- Posture correction and training
- Relaxation Therapy
- Therapeutic Exercises: stretching and strengthening
- Lifestyle modifications
- Weight loss program if obese
