Thoracic Outlet Syndrome happens when the space between your collarbone and rib gets too tight, pinching the nerves or blood vessels and causing pain or numbness in your arms or neck.

• Repetitive movements: Activities like typing, lifting, or throwing can cause repetitive strain, leading to TOS over time.
• Injury: A traumatic injury, such as a car accident or a fall, can compress the thoracic outlet.
• Poor posture: Slouching or keeping the shoulders hunched for long periods can narrow the space in the thoracic outlet, causing compression.
• Congenital conditions: Some people are born with extra ribs or abnormal muscle anatomy, which can contribute to TOS.

• Athletes: Individuals who participate in sports that require repetitive overhead movements, such as swimming or baseball, are at higher risk.
• Office workers: People who work long hours at a desk or in front of a computer are prone to developing TOS due to poor posture.
• Individuals with previous injuries: Trauma to the neck, shoulder, or collarbone can increase the likelihood of TOS.
• People with congenital anomalies: Those born with an extra rib or abnormal muscle structure may be more susceptible to compression in the thoracic outlet.

• Neck and shoulder pain: Pain often radiates from the neck to the shoulders and arms.
• Numbness or tingling: You may feel a "pins and needles" sensation, particularly in the fingers and hands.
• Weakness in the arms: Some people experience difficulty gripping objects or performing tasks that require strength.
• Swelling or discoloration: In more severe cases, compression of blood vessels can cause swelling or a bluish tint in the arms and hands.
• Limited range of motion: You may find it hard to move your arms freely, especially in overhead movements.

• Sudden or severe arm or hand weakness: This could be a sign of significant nerve damage.
• Cold, pale, or bluish hands or fingers: These symptoms suggest that blood flow is being restricted and need to be addressed immediately.
• Severe neck or shoulder pain that doesn’t improve with rest: Persistent pain could indicate worsening compression that requires urgent care.

• Physical examination: The doctor will check for tenderness in the neck and shoulders, as well as test for nerve or blood vessel compression through range-of-motion tests.
• X-rays: These are used to look for bone abnormalities, such as an extra rib or other structural issues, which may be causing the compression.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): An MRI provides a detailed view of the soft tissues and can help identify any muscle or nerve compression.
• Nerve conduction studies: These tests assess the speed and strength of electrical signals through the nerves to detect any nerve damage.
• Ultrasound: This imaging test can be used to examine the blood vessels and check for any blockages or compression in the thoracic outlet.

• Physical therapy: Exercises to improve posture, strengthen muscles, and increase flexibility can help relieve pressure on the nerves and blood vessels.
• Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to relieve tension in the muscles.
• Lifestyle changes: Improving posture, adjusting workstations, and avoiding repetitive movements can help prevent further strain on the thoracic outlet.
• Injections: Corticosteroid injections can reduce inflammation and relieve pain, particularly in cases where physical therapy and medications are not enough.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove an extra rib, repair damaged blood vessels, or release the compressed nerves.

• Persistent neck or shoulder pain: Pain that does not improve with rest, stretches, or changes in posture should be evaluated.
• Numbness or tingling in the arms or hands: If you frequently feel "pins and needles" or numbness in your arms, hands, or fingers, this could indicate nerve compression.
• Weakness in the arms: Difficulty gripping objects, or feeling unusually weak in the arms or hands, especially during normal tasks, should be addressed by a healthcare provider.
• Swelling or discoloration in the arms or hands: This may suggest restricted blood flow and requires prompt medical attention.

• Improve posture: Maintaining good posture, especially while sitting at a desk or working on a computer, can prevent excessive strain on the neck and shoulders.
• Take regular breaks: For those whose jobs involve repetitive movements or sitting for long periods, frequent breaks to stretch and move can reduce the risk of compression.
• Strengthen shoulder muscles: Engaging in exercises that strengthen the muscles around the shoulders and upper back can help provide better support and reduce pressure on the thoracic outlet.
• Avoid heavy lifting: If possible, avoid repetitive heavy lifting or overhead activities that can put extra strain on the shoulders and neck.
• Adjust your workstation: Make ergonomic adjustments to your desk, chair, and computer setup to ensure your shoulders are not hunched or your arms are not strained during the day.

• Stretching exercises: Incorporating gentle stretching into your daily routine can help keep the muscles around your neck and shoulders flexible, reducing the risk of compression.
• Pay attention to symptoms: If you start noticing any discomfort or numbness in your shoulders or arms, address it early to prevent the condition from progressing.
• Seek early treatment for minor injuries: Prompt treatment of neck or shoulder injuries can prevent them from developing into long-term issues like TOS.