thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

[gccoyote]

I started having arm, shoulder and hand pain/neuropathy about 1 1/2  years ago. So far, I have had rotator cuff repair, 2 level cervical fusion, and a great deal of physical therapy. My latest mylegram does not show cervical conpression. The arm symptoms continue to get worse. The ortho wants to scope my shoulder. Who do I go to for help with this? From what I've read about TOS, this sounds like it.

[Dr Rajgopal]

Hi,
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a rare condition. Blood vessels and nerves 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 and thus may get compressed. Pressure on these blood vessels or nerves can cause symptoms in the arms or hands. Problems with the nerves is the cause for almost all cases of thoracic outlet syndrome.
Compression may 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. Symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome may include: Pain, numbness, and tingling in the last three fingers and inner forearm, Pain and tingling in the neck and shoulders (carrying something heavy may make the pain worse), signs of poor circulation in the hand or forearm, Weakness of the muscles in the hand. Exams and Tests include MRI, EMG, Nerve conduction studies, and X-rays. If the EMG doesn’t show cervical compression, please go for MRI of the spine and consult a neurologist for the examination  and diagnosis. Hope this helps you. Take care and regards!  

[just4mel_d]

Hello, My name is Melody and I am dealing with TOS also. The TOS I have deals with nerves. I woke one morning with numbness in my pinky and ring finger after a blow to my head from my trunk. Then I started to have chest wall pain and occipital headaches on the right side above my ear and by my temple. I have been doing massage therapy with a wonderful woman who really knows her stuff. This along with some Ibprophen has really helped. My massage therapist also gave me some stretches to do that have helped. Some days my symptoms are worse than others but getting much better. I hope this helps you and I will answer any questions you may have. Good luck, Melody