Thoracic outlet syndrome is a group of disorders that occur when blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and your first rib (thoracic outlet) are compressed. This can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers.

Common causes of thoracic outlet syndrome include physical trauma from a car accident, repetitive injuries from job- or sports-related activities, certain anatomical defects (such as having an extra rib), and pregnancy. Sometimes doctors can't determine the cause of thoracic outlet syndrome.

Treatment for thoracic outlet syndrome usually involves physical therapy and pain relief measures. Most people improve with these approaches. In some cases, however, your doctor may recommend surgery.

There are a number of types of thoracic outlet syndrome, including:

• Neurogenic (neurological) thoracic outlet syndrome

• Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome. 

• Nonspecific-type thoracic outlet syndrome. 

When nerves are compressed, signs and symptoms of neurological thoracic outlet syndrome include:

• Muscle wasting in the fleshy base of your thumb (Gilliatt-Sumner hand)

• Numbness or tingling in your arm or fingers

• Pain or aches in your neck, shoulder or hand

• Weakening grip

Signs and symptoms of vascular thoracic outlet syndrome can include:

• Discoloration of your hand (bluish color)

• Arm pain and swelling, possibly due to blood clots

• Blood clot in veins or arteries in the upper area of your body

• Lack of color (pallor) in one or more of your fingers or your entire hand

• Weak or no pulse in the affected arm

• Cold fingers, hands or arms

• Arm fatigue with activity

• Numbness or tingling in your fingers

• Weakness of arm or neck

• Throbbing lump near your collarbone

When to see a doctor

See your doctor if you consistently experience any of the signs and symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome.

http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/thoracic-outlet-syndrome/home/ovc-20237878

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