It evaluates the electrical activity of your muscles when at rest and when contracted. During this test, an electrode is inserted through your skin into various muscles. Electromyography allows your doctor to see how well the muscles and nerves in the thoracic outlet are working.They may also show certain structural abnormalities that could be causing your symptoms. The pictures can help determine the location and cause of the compression. An MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create clear, detailed images of the thoracic outlet.It may also rule out other conditions that could be causing your symptoms. An X-ray of the thoracic outlet can reveal whether you have an extra rib.To confirm the diagnosis, your doctor may order additional tests, including the following: If your symptoms develop during provocation tests, then you likely have thoracic outlet syndrome. Your doctor will ask you to move your neck, shoulders, and arms in different positions.įor example, they may ask you to put your hands over your head or to open and close your hands for 3 minutes. These tests are meant to reproduce your symptoms so your doctor can make a diagnosis more easily. During the exam, your doctor may use what are called “provocation tests” to evaluate your condition. Your doctor will first perform a physical exam and review your symptoms and medical history. How is thoracic outlet syndrome diagnosed? Over time, the size of the thoracic outlet may shrink, placing pressure on the vessels and nerves. Repetitive activities, such as working at a computer or lifting heavy objects above the head, can cause damage to the tissues in the thoracic outlet. InjuryĬar accidents and other traumatic injuries can compress the thoracic outlet as well as the vessels and nerves in this area. This can cause a narrowing of the thoracic outlet. People who don’t stand up straight or who have excess abdominal fat may have increased pressure on their joints. This reduces the size of their thoracic outlet and compresses nerves and blood vessels. Some people are born with an extra rib above their first rib. However, it may develop as a result of the following conditions: An extra rib The cause of this compression isn’t always known. Thoracic outlet syndrome usually occurs when the thoracic outlet becomes narrowed and compresses the nerves and blood vessels.
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