thoracic outlet syndrome

[mach2]

Its been a 2 months since i visited the board. A lot of things have changed. I wanted to ask around if anyone has experienced thoracic outlet syndrome? It consists of a rapid development on chest muscles that involves the blood and nerve supply that goes to your arms and fingers. My hands fall asleep all the time and i am loosing strength in my grip. Also i have developed a fine tremor. My last cycle was five monthe ago. I have gained a lot in 8 months though. Bench is up 120 lbs for instance. I have gone to physical therapy and the lay off has hepled but i am ready to get cranken again. Any experiences from others.

 

[George Spellwin]

How is your posture? Please keep us posted on your progress -- here's what I have read:

A home program of exercise is essential to the treatment of TOS and must be performed consistently to produce benefits. Symptoms often respond to an exercise program addressing healthy posture and muscle balance. Stretching and strengthening along with awareness exercises can help achieve optimal posture.

Symptoms caused by abnormalities in the bones and muscles may not respond to physical therapy but good posture and overall conditioning are very important in treating all causes of TOS. You should limit the length of time the arms are used in outstretched or overhead positions, and in heavy carrying and lifting. Simple things like taking frequent breaks, changing positions, stretching or using a hand truck or cart can bring relief. More specific treatments and exercises may be prescribed by a physician or physical therapist. Rehabilitation may begin with a few exercises to loosen up tight muscles and joints around the compressed nerves and blood vessels. To help restore normal mobility, your therapist may prescribe stretching and massage for the joints, muscles, and nerves.

 

[Pyroman]

Loss of grip strength and paresthesia over the hand and forearm do not pin point TOS. The could be compressin of the mendian nerve which will affect the thumb, index and middle finger as far as grip strength goes and paresthesia (numbness - pins & needles). With that particular sensation you are bringing in other possibilites try this test on your self ( take the index and middle fingers of your opposing hand and make a curved point with them, now tap on the middle of your wrist on the palm side were the thumb and pinky tissue meet) if this brings an abnormal senation that is possible median nerve compression. TOS is primarily arterial compression and you will have a decreased pulse on that side, and when that arm is lifed over the head the pulse will completely disappear. My advice see check you pulse bilaterally to tell if there is a difference in peripheral blood flow start by checcking the pulse in a seated position then lift the arm to chest level and check, then above your head. If TOS is present the pulse will dissappear. Furthermore, TOS inregards to muscular development refers to the enlargment of the PEC Minor which will compress upon the axillary and brachiocephalic arteries. Don't worry if your arm is turning blue/black and you don't have complete motor loss over that arm you are going to recover.