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Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Vascular Institute of New York Our Services Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Vascular Institute of New York

Board Certified Vascular and Endovascular Surgeons & Wound Care Specialists located in Borough Park, Brooklyn, NY

Thoracic outlet syndrome affects the shoulder, arms, and hands, and causes pain and discomfort that can interfere with daily activities. The experienced team at the Vascular Institute of New York can diagnosis and treat thoracic outlet syndrome, ending your pain and restoring your mobility. Located in the Borough Park area of Brooklyn, New York, the Vascular Institute of New York features an onsite, state-of-the-art vascular diagnostic lab for your convenience. To schedule an evaluation for thoracic outlet syndrome, call the Vascular Institute of New York or book online.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Q & A

What is thoracic outlet syndrome?

Thoracic outlet syndrome affects the internal space between your collarbone and your first rib. This area is known as the thoracic outlet because a group of blood vessels and nerves emerge through this space from the thoracic region within the rib cage. Narrowing of the thoracic outlet puts pressure on these nerves and blood vessels, causing symptoms in the arms, hands, or fingers.

What are the symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome?

If you experience fatigue in your arm, especially when reaching overhead, it could indicate that you have thoracic outlet syndrome. Other symptoms include:

  • Pain in the shoulder, arm, hand, or fingertips
  • Numbness or tingling
  • Swelling
  • Muscle weakness
  • Bluish skin discoloration
  • Cold hands or fingers

Symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount of pressure on the thoracic outlet area.

What causes thoracic outlet syndrome?

Some conditions that can cause compression of nerves and blood vessels leading to thoracic outlet syndrome include:

  • Birth defects, such as an extra rib
  • Poor posture
  • Traumatic injuries
  • Repetitive motion injuries

Pregnancy and being overweight can contribute to thoracic outlet syndrome by putting excess pressure on your joints, leading to nerve and vascular compression.

How does a doctor diagnose thoracic outlet syndrome?

To diagnose thoracic outlet syndrome, the caring physicians at the Vascular Institute of New York begin by reviewing your health history, performing a physical exam, and discussing your symptoms with you in detail. 

They may also order vascular ultrasound imaging, vascular function tests, and other diagnostics to determine the exact cause of your symptoms. These tests are conducted in the onsite, state-of-the-art vascular diagnostics lab at the clinic.

How is thoracic outlet syndrome treated?

Conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or anti-inflammatory medications, can often resolve thoracic outlet syndrome. If your symptoms are caused by vascular compression, your experienced provider at the Vascular Institute of New York may recommend the following:

  • Intravenous clot-dissolving medications
  • Anticoagulants
  • Venous surgery
  • Blood clot removal surgery

If surgery is required, your physician may recommend physical therapy after your recovery to ensure that your symptoms don’t return.

If you’re experiencing symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome, schedule an evaluation with a skilled physician at the Vascular Institute of New York. Call today or book an appointment online. 

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