Thoracic outlet syndrome

Please read: Important 2013 cancer research update from Dr. Michael Camilleri

Free

E-newsletter

Subscribe to Housecall

Our weekly general interest
e-newsletter keeps you up to date on a wide variety of health topics.

Sign up now

Prevention

By Mayo Clinic staff

Thoracic outlet syndrome that goes untreated for years can cause permanent neurological damage, so it's important to deal with the symptoms early or, even better, to prevent the disorder altogether. If you're susceptible to thoracic outlet compression, avoid repetitive movements and lifting heavy objects. If you're overweight, you can prevent or relieve symptoms associated with thoracic outlet syndrome by losing weight.

Even if you don't have symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome, avoid carrying heavy bags over your shoulder, because this can increase pressure on the thoracic outlet. Stretch daily, and perform exercises that keep your shoulder muscles strong.

Coping and support
References
  1. Sheon RP. Overview of the nerve entrapment syndromes. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Sept. 7, 2010.
  2. NINDS thoracic outlet syndrome information page. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/thoracic/thoracic.htm. Accessed Sept. 4, 2010.
  3. Thoracic outlet syndrome. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. http://orthoinfo.aaos.org/topic.cfm?topic=a00336. Accessed Sept. 4, 2010.
  4. Thoracic outlet syndrome. National Pain Foundation. http://www.nationalpainfoundation.org/articles/577/what-is-it? Accessed Sept. 4, 2010.
  5. Thoracic outlet compression syndromes. The Merck Manuals: The Merck Manual for Healthcare Professionals. http://www.merck.com/mmpe/sec16/ch223/ch223k.html?qt=thoracic%20outlet%20syndrome&alt=sh. Accessed Sept. 4, 2010.
  6. Thoracic outlet syndrome. Society for Vascular Surgery. http://www.vascularweb.org/vascularhealth/Pages/ThoracicOutletSyndrome.aspx. Accessed Sept. 4, 2010.
DS00800 Nov. 6, 2010

© 1998-2013 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). All rights reserved. A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. "Mayo," "Mayo Clinic," "MayoClinic.com," "EmbodyHealth," "Enhance your life," and the triple-shield Mayo Clinic logo are trademarks of Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.

  • Reprints
  • Print

  • Share on:

  • Email

Advertisement


Text Size: smaller largerlarger