Health-Hack.com

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

July 25th, 2005

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a disorder caused by compression between the collarbone and the first rib. In this space there are a variety of tissues including muscle, nerves and blood vessels. Accordingly, the symptoms may vary depending on what becomes compressed.
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons web site:

If the shoulder muscles in your chest are not strong enough to hold the collarbone in place, it can slip down and forward, putting pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that lie under it… Pressure on the blood vessels can reduce the flow of blood to your arms and hands, making them feel cool and tire easily. Pressure on the nerves can leave you with a vague, aching pain in your neck, shoulder, arm or hand. Overhead activities are particularly difficult.

There are a variety of causes for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (or TOS, as it is known for short) including injury (Repetitive Strain or otherwise), disease or birth defect. Poor posture and obeisity can aggravate the condition.

The South African Tribune’s Sunday magazine offers an autobiographical account of Jani Meyer’s experience with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

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Entry Filed under: Pain + Injury