The disease wherein the nerves and blood vessels below your neck (between the collarbone and the first rib) are crushed is known as thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). Thoracic outlet syndrome can take a variety of forms. When the brachial plexus is squeezed, neurogenic (neurological) thoracic outlet syndrome develops. The brachial plexus is a collection of nerves that emerge from the spinal cord and regulate sensation and muscular activity in the hand, arm, and shoulder. When one or more of the blood vessels (veins or arteries) under the collarbone are compressed, it is known as vascular thoracic outlet syndrome. People who have nonspecific thoracic outlet syndrome experience persistent discomfort around the thoracic outlet that gets worse with exercise, but the exact origin of the pain cannot be identified.
What are the thoracic outlet syndrome occupational risk factors?
Activities at work that require fixed postures for an extended period of time, such as lifting objects over shoulder height or pushing shoulders back and down, can inflame and enlarge the tendons and muscles in the shoulders and upper arms. They may enclose the blood vessels and nerves between the neck and shoulders if they are large or irritated. Thoracic outlet syndrome may be brought on by weak shoulder muscles, long necks and slanted shoulders, bad posture, and obesity. Sports-related repetitive injuries can also contribute to this syndrome. Dental hygienists, computer users, assembly line workers, and people who move objects over their heads are a few professions that are susceptible to this illness.
What are the thoracic outlet syndrome's common causes?
Compression's root causes might range, however some examples include: Poor posture is characterized by slumped shoulders or holding the head forward. Trauma: Trauma from an auto accident, for example. An additional rib that develops above the first rib or an excessively tight fibrous band connecting the spine to the rib are examples of anatomical abnormalities, which refer to the way your body is built at birth. Joint stress can be caused by obesity, carrying an excessive suitcase or backpack, and other factors. Pregnancy: Thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms may manifest as joints become more supple throughout pregnancy. This syndrome may be more common in women than in men. Between the ages of 20 and 40, young adults are more likely to experience it.
How does thoracic outlet syndrome manifest?
The symptoms can change depending on which structures are squeezed. Neurological Thoracic Outlet Syndrome symptoms that occur when nerves are squeezed include: Arms or fingers that are numb or tingly The fleshy base of the thumb's muscles are fading away. Aches or pains in the hand, shoulder, or neck weakness in the grip strength of your hands Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms and signs can include: tingling or numbness in the fingertips Hand discoloration (bluish color) Blood clot in the body's upper region's arteries or veins near the collarbone, throbbing lump Cold hands, arms, or fingers Arm discomfort and edema pulse in the afflicted arm is weak or absent.
Thoracic outlet syndrome: how is it identified?
A physical examination and medical history are used to make the diagnosis. The diagnosis can be verified by specialized laboratory tests.
Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome
Thoracic outlet syndrome patients first receive treatment mostly through an organized exercise therapy regimen. It can be required to avoid employment activities that are thought to be the condition's cause. Anti-inflammatory medications may be recommended by doctors to treat pain and inflammation. In some circumstances, if symptoms last a long period, surgery may be required.
How may thoracic outlet syndrome be avoided?
Thoracic outlet syndrome should be prevented by redesigning or designing the workplace to discourage employees from lifting objects higher than their shoulders, hauling large loads, or reaching overhead. Regular conditioning can ease pressure on blood vessels and neurons by building muscles and enhancing posture.""" - https://www.affordablecebu.com/
