Thoracic outlet syndrome (patient information): Difference between revisions
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==What are the symptoms of Thoracic outlet syndrome?== | ==What are the symptoms of Thoracic outlet syndrome?== | ||
==What causes Thoracic outlet syndrome?== | ==What causes Thoracic outlet syndrome?== | ||
[[Thoracic outlet syndrome]] is a rare [[condition]]. | |||
[[Blood vessels]] and [[nerves]] coming from the [[spine]] or major [[blood vessels]] of the body pass through a narrow space near the [[shoulder]] and [[armpit]] on their way to the arms. As they pass by or through the [[collarbone]] ([[clavicle]]) and upper [[ribs]], they may not have enough space. [[Pressure]] (compression) on these [[blood vessels]] or [[nerves]] can cause symptoms in the arms or [[hands]]. Problems with the [[nerves]] account for almost all cases of [[thoracic outlet syndrome]]. | |||
Compression can be caused by an extra [[cervical rib]] (above the [[first rib]]) or an abnormal tight fibrous band connecting the spinal vertebra to the [[rib]]. Patients often have a history of [[injury]] to the area or overuse of the [[shoulder]]. | |||
People with long necks and droopy [[shoulders]] may be more likely to develop this [[condition]] because of extra pressure on their [[nerves]] and [[blood vessels]]. | |||
==How do I know I have Thoracic outlet syndrome?== | ==How do I know I have Thoracic outlet syndrome?== |
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What is Thoracic outlet syndrome?
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a combination of pain in the neck and shoulder, numbness and tingling of the fingers, and a weak grip. The thoracic outlet is the area between the rib cage and collar bone.
What are the symptoms of Thoracic outlet syndrome?
What causes Thoracic outlet syndrome?
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a rare condition.
Blood vessels and nerves coming from the spine or major blood vessels of the body pass through a narrow space near the shoulder and armpit on their way to the arms. As they pass by or through the collarbone (clavicle) and upper ribs, they may not have enough space. Pressure (compression) on these blood vessels or nerves can cause symptoms in the arms or hands. Problems with the nerves account for almost all cases of thoracic outlet syndrome.
Compression can be caused by an extra cervical rib (above the first rib) or an abnormal tight fibrous band connecting the spinal vertebra to the rib. Patients often have a history of injury to the area or overuse of the shoulder.
People with long necks and droopy shoulders may be more likely to develop this condition because of extra pressure on their nerves and blood vessels.
How do I know I have Thoracic outlet syndrome?
When to seek urgent medical care
Prevention of Thoracic outlet syndrome
Treatment options
Where to find medical care for Thoracic outlet syndrome
Directions to Hospitals Treating Thoracic outlet syndrome