Any condition which results in enlargement or movement of the tissues of or near the thoracic outlet can cause the thoracic outlet syndrome. Often no specific cause is found. The resulting vertical posture produced flattening of the chest cage and a shift of the shoulder joint backwards, both of which narrowed the thoracic outlet. Often symptoms are reproduced when the arm is positioned above the shoulder or extended. Patients can have a wide spectrum of symptoms from mild and intermittent, to severe and constant.
Pains can extend to the fingers and hands, causing weakness.
The diagnosis is suggested by the symptoms and supported by findings of the doctor during the examination. Some patients can have angiogram x-ray tests that demonstrate the pinched area of the blood vessel involved. What is the treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome Treatment of the thoracic outlet syndrome can usually be conservative and involve a variety of exercises which effectively stretch open the tissues of the thoracic outlet. Physical therapists are specially trained in the instruction of exercises for the thoracic outlet syndrome. Shoulder shrug exercises and others can be done at home or at work to relax the muscles around the thoracic outlet.