Réhabital
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treatment in Côte Saint-Luc
Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when the nerves of the brachial plexus or the blood vessels running to the arm are compressed between the collarbone, the first rib and the scalene muscles of the neck. The result: numbness, arm heaviness, pain radiating from the shoulder to the hand, and sometimes a change in finger colour. These symptoms often mimic a cervical spine problem or carpal tunnel syndrome, which frequently delays the correct diagnosis. At Réhabital in Côte Saint-Luc, we carefully assess the whole shoulder girdle, neck and posture to pinpoint exactly where the nerve or vascular pathway is being compressed.
Book an AppointmentUnderstanding This Condition
There are three forms of thoracic outlet syndrome. The neurogenic form, by far the most common, affects the brachial plexus and causes numbness, weak grip and diffuse arm pain, often worse with the arm raised overhead. The venous form compresses the subclavian vein, causing arm swelling and heaviness, sometimes after intense repetitive effort. The arterial form, the rarest, causes hand paleness and coolness with exertion. Anatomical causes include an extra cervical rib, tight or shortened scalene muscles, a poorly healed clavicle fracture, or a slumped, rounded shoulder posture that closes the costoclavicular space. Workers who frequently raise their arms (painters, hairdressers, electricians) and people with prolonged slumped posture are particularly at risk. Differentiating this from cervical radiculopathy, carpal tunnel syndrome or a shoulder problem is essential, since treatment differs significantly between them.
Common Symptoms
Common Causes
Costoclavicular space anatomy
An extra cervical rib, an abnormal first rib, or a poorly healed clavicle fracture reduce the space available for nerves and vessels traveling to the arm.
Tight scalene muscles
The anterior and middle scalene muscles form a narrow passage for the brachial plexus. Shortening or hypertrophy, often related to stress or upper-chest breathing, directly compresses the nerves.
Slumped, rounded shoulder posture
Carrying heavy bags or adopting a slumped posture closes the costoclavicular space between the clavicle and first rib, increasing neurovascular compression.
Repetitive overhead movement
Occupations and sports requiring frequent overhead arm use (painting, swimming, volleyball) place excessive strain on the thoracic outlet and cause progressive irritation.
Trauma sequelae
Whiplash, a clavicle fracture or thoracic surgery can create adhesions or scar-related muscle hypertrophy that narrows the outlet space.
Our Treatment Approach
Assessment includes the Adson, Wright and costoclavicular tests, along with brachial plexus neural tension testing and a full postural examination of the shoulder girdle and cervical spine. In physiotherapy, Colin Teghen Tamuton targets scalene and pectoralis minor release, brachial plexus nerve glides, and specific strengthening of scapular stabilizers to open the costoclavicular space. Osteopathy, with Shahram Ghasemi, addresses mobility of the first rib, clavicle and cervico-thoracic spine, as well as diaphragmatic function that influences scalene posture. Massage therapy releases chronic tension in the scalenes and upper trapezius. Vascular cases require prompt medical assessment before any manual treatment.
What to Expect at Your First Visit
The first visit lasts about 60 minutes and includes specific provocation testing, a neurological arm examination and a complete postural assessment. A progressive treatment plan is set up, with exercises to start from the first visit.
At-Home Self-Care Tips
- Avoid carrying a heavy bag on one shoulder.
- Correct shoulder posture several times a day.
- Practice diaphragmatic breathing rather than upper-chest breathing.
- Avoid sleeping with the arm raised overhead.
- Gently stretch the scalene muscles and pectoralis minor.
- Take breaks during repetitive overhead tasks.
Prognosis & Recovery Timeline
Mild to moderate neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome responds well to conservative treatment within 6 to 12 weeks. Venous or arterial forms require prompt medical evaluation and sometimes specialized intervention before rehabilitation. Early management significantly lowers the risk of chronic symptoms.
When to See Us at Réhabital
Come in if arm numbness persists more than two weeks or worsens with certain movements. See a physician immediately for sudden arm swelling, a change in hand colour, or marked coldness on one side, which may indicate a vascular issue requiring urgent evaluation.
Why Réhabital Clinic
In Côte Saint-Luc, our team combines precise neurological assessment, specialized physiotherapy and osteopathy to treat this often-misdiagnosed syndrome. We tailor each plan to your posture and daily activities.
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Address
D4-5800 Cavendish Blvd
Côte Saint-Luc, QC H4W 2T5
Phone
(438) 842-3550Hours
Mon–Fri: 10AM–8PM
Sun: 10AM–4PM
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