The bony, ligamentous, and muscular obstacles all define the cervicoaxillary canal or the thoracic outlet and its course from the base of the neck to the axilla or arm pit. Look at the scheme of this region and it all becomes more easily understood. It is important to understand that presenting with the symptoms listed below in no way indicates a definitive diagnosis for thoracic outlet syndrome. Professionals understand the importance of coupling diagnostic testing skills with the patient s report of what hurts and what doesn t seem to be working properly. Neurologic and vascular symptoms can be indicative of more serious conditions.
Compression occurs when the size and shape of the thoracic outlet is altered.
The outlet can be altered by exercise, trauma, pregnancy, a congenital anomaly, an exostosis, postural weakness or changes. Below is a list of the component syndromes which comprise thoracic outlet syndrome along with a brief description of each. Refer to the scheme for questions about the gross anatomy of the region. Anterior scalene tightness Compression of the interscalene space between the anterior and middle scalene muscles-probably from nerve root irritation, spondylosis or facet joint inflammation leading to muscle spasm. Costoclavicular approximation Compression in the space between the clavicle, the first rib and the muscular and ligamentous structures in the area-probably from postural deficiencies or carrying heavy objects.