Thoracic outlet syndrome

Overview

Nerve-type TOS causes tingling in the ring and little fingers.

Vessel-type TOS can cause arm swelling or a cold hand and needs prompt care.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Arm tingling or pain

Less common

• Arm swelling
• Cold hand
• Cold fingers

Look up a symptom: Numb or tingling arm

When to get medical care

Causes

Compression.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Athletes

Diagnosis

A clinician asks about your symptoms and may order tests.

The exam

A physical exam.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Exam:

Treatment

Treatment depends on the cause and how severe it is.

Self-care

• Posture exercises
• Do stretching exercises
• Avoid carrying heavy bags on the shoulder

Prevention

To lower your risk or prevent problems:

• Good posture

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a vascular specialist (blood vessel doctor).

Children, pregnancy, and older adults

• Swimmers and pitchers: Higher risk.
• Athletes who throw: Higher risk.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Therapy helps most.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

What to bring

• A list of your medicines and supplements
• Notes on when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse

Questions to ask

• What's causing this?
• What treatment do you recommend?
• Do I need surgery?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Thoracic outlet syndrome