Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Sometimes, a congenital (from birth) abnormality can cause thoracic outlet syndrome, but it is more likely to occur after trauma.
More specifically:
Cervical rib: A cervical rib is an extra rib that grows from the cervical spine — the neck part of the spine. Between 1 and 3 percent of the population has a cervical rib, which may grow on one side or both, and may reach down to attach to the first rib or may not be fully formed. Having a cervical rib increases the chance of nerve or blood vessel compression between the rib or its muscles and ligamentous connections sharing this small space. A small percentage of people with a cervical rib develop thoracic outlet syndrome. Many people with a cervical rib never know it, because the bone is often tiny and isn’t noticed, even in X-rays.
Abnormal muscle or first rib formation: Some people may have an extra or aberrant scalene muscle (an inner muscle of the neck) or an abnormal first rib or clavicle (collarbone). Any of these abnormal formations can compress blood vessels or nerves.
The following events may cause thoracic outlet syndrome, especially in people with the above bone or muscle abnormalities in the neck:
Whiplash: Arm and hand symptoms that persist long after a whiplash injury may be a sign of thoracic outlet syndrome.
Bodybuilding: Built-up muscles in the neck may grow too large and compress nerves or the subclavian vessels.
Repeated overhead motions: People who take up swimming, baseball or painting, or who work as hairstylists, auto mechanics or other jobs that require raised arms may develop thoracic outlet syndrome.
Weight gain: As with extra muscle mass, extra fat in the neck may compress nerves or subclavian vessels.
Tumor in the neck: On rare occasions, a tumor may be the cause of the compression.
To learn more about the causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome click HERE
* Information is intended for educational purposes only, and should not be substituted for consultation with a healthcare provider. Please make an appointment to see your physician if you suspect that you have TOS.