Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Top Lessons I've Learned

[@MahatriaRaj]

It’s truly inspiring to see your journey 13 years after your major TOS diagnosis. I’ve been dealing with neurogenic bilateral Thoracic Outlet Syndrome for the past five years, which has caused persistent tingling and numbness in both of my hands. Despite trying multiple physical therapy approaches, I haven’t found much relief. Passive stretches and traditional shoulder strengthening exercises haven’t been effective, and I’ve noticed the importance of focusing on stability before mobility, as you highlighted in your experience. I believe the issue for me may lie between the ribcage and scapula, where the thoracic outlet gets compressed. If possible, could you create a video demonstrating exercises that focus on improving scapular stability with the arm elevated in all directions? These could help engage the scapula properly against the ribs and avoid the challenges I’ve faced with passive stretching and mobility work. Thank you so much for your time and guidance!

[@MovementbyAjith]

Hey man I just wanted to say thank you for these videos. As an aspiring professional climber recently diagnosed with VTOS, your videos detailing your experience have been extremely helpful to me. Thanks for your videos and great work!!! Glad to hear after some time you are feeling healthy and good! I was diagnosed with VTOS after a DVT and 3 PEs. I am currently on blood thinners after thrombolysis undergoing a period of conservative treatment while I make a decision to have surgery or not. Do you believe with lifestyle changes, posture work, physical therapy, and other holistic measures some people may be able to avoid surgery altogether for treatment of VTOS? Curious to hear your thoughts on this with everything you have learned. It seems as though all research points to surgery as definitive treatment for most people... After a conversation with Hugh Gelabert at UCLA he did say he has seen a few cases where people’s bodies adapted without surgery via collateral networks and stopping aggravating activities… curious to hear your thoughts on this :)

[@thestudentphysicaltherapist]

Thank you for the comment. Regarding your question about conservative management for vTOS, I believe there’s a lot to be said for the body’s incredible capacity to adapt and heal. With diligent effort, some individuals might be able to manage their symptoms effectively through lifestyle changes, physical therapy, and holistic measures. I often wonder if I could have avoided surgery, but I believe my vein was too scarred and fibrotic. Even after thrombolysis and blood thinners, my vein clotted again so they scheduled surgery right away. As a high-level climber, activity modification will be an obstacle on the journey. While research often points to surgery as the definitive treatment for vTOS cases, there is research on success with milder cases. However, it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare team and monitor your condition closely. I hope this provides some insight and best wishes on your path!