Fortunately, in many cases, the symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome can be addressed with physical therapy.
This article will discuss physical therapy assessment, goals, exercises, and outcomes for thoracic outlet syndrome.
There are three unique varieties, each with its own specific presentation.
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Finally, in some cases imaging may be necessary to figure out the cause of your symptoms.
This often includes an electromyogram (EMG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or an X-ray.
PT can help you accomplish this goal in a number of different ways.
First, soft tissue massage can be performed on several neck and chest muscles to relax these structures.
In addition, stretching and mobilization techniques are also generally utilized by your physical therapist.
During this time, it is important to protect the structures in the thoracic outlet area.
Some begin postural muscle strengthening after a month, but weight lifting is restricted for three months.
Some of the hallmark techniques traditionally utilized are listed below.
This, in turn, can help prevent symptom reoccurrence.
Nerve Gliding Techniques
Another common addition to your TOS rehab isnerve gliding.
Alternating between these two arm movements can help relieve some of your TOS symptoms over time.
First, have a go at avoid carrying heavy backpacks, bags, or purses over the affected shoulder.
Fortunately, in most cases, this is a very treatable condition.
Conservative treatment, however, may take up to six months to provide significant relief.
Venous thoracic outlet syndrome typically does not respond well to physical therapy.
Finally, in the case of arterial thoracic outlet syndrome, surgery is usually necessary to provide symptom relief.
Summary
Physical therapy can help with the symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome.
Depending on the throw in, surgery may be needed, with physical therapy both before and after.
Physical therapy begins with range of motion exercises, stretching, and mobilization exercises.
It then may progress to strengthening exercises for the shoulder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What physical therapy exercises are recommended to relieve thoracic outlet syndrome?
Physical therapy for thoracic outlet syndrome typically focuses on three types of exercises.
First, postural stretches are prescribed to improve the flexibility in the muscles that surround the affected nerves.
How long do you need physical therapy to help with thoracic outlet syndrome?
The amount of time it takes for PT to help the symptoms of TOS varies from person to person.
That said, it is not unusual to see progress in as little as four to six weeks.
In some cases, however, it can take four to six months to completely resolve your symptoms.
How many sessions of physical therapy do you need after surgery for thoracic outlet syndrome?
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