Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in High-Performance Athletes

High-performance athletes put their bodies through demanding training and performance activities. As a result, these athletes may face unique physical challenges and injuries. 

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is one such condition. It results when wear and tear or an injury creates scar tissue in the muscles of the neck, and it can trigger frustrating symptoms, including numbness, pain, tingling, and weakness in your hand and arm. 

At Anthony Echo, M.D., in Houston, Texas, our board-certified surgeon expertly diagnoses and effectively treats TOS in high-performance athletes, using his extensive surgical experience and know-how to help you return to play.

All about thoracic outlet syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome describes a group of disorders characterized by irritation or compression of blood vessels or nerves in your thoracic outlet—the area between your collarbone and the first rib of your ribcage.

There are several types of TOS. The most common is called neurogenic TOS, which affects the brachial complex nerves, which serve your hands and arm. Over 95% of people with TOS have neurogenic TOS. Rarely, people develop venous TOS, which affects veins in your lower neck and upper chest, or arterial TOS, triggered by bone abnormalities in your neck. 

As a nerve specialist, Dr. Echo treats neurogenic TOS. However, he can accurately diagnose the type of TOS you have and refer you to a provider who specializes in venous or arterial TOS if required.

The link between high-performance athletics and TOS

High-performance athletes are prone to developing TOS for several reasons. First, athletes use specific muscle groups over and over, making them more likely to develop overuse injuries. This can cause increased tension and muscle imbalances that affect the neck region.

In addition, high-performance athletes also experience injury and trauma to the thoracic region more than average. For example, fractures or bone dislocations in the thoracic region can damage the delicate structures and trigger inflammation and scar tissue, contributing to TOS. 

Treating thoracic outlet syndrome

When it comes to treating neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome in high-performance athletes, Dr. Echo’s initial approach typically involves conservative therapies, including options like:

• Pain medications
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Injections to the scalene and pectoralis minor muscles

The goal of these therapies is to reduce inflammation and minimize your pain. In addition, physical therapy can play a crucial role in strengthening and stretching the shoulder muscles, while Botox® injections can effectively relax the neck muscles. 

Despite the effectiveness of conservative treatments for many patients, some individuals may not experience long-term relief and surgical intervention may be necessary. 

Dr. Echo, with his expertise in peripheral nerve surgery and microsurgery, possesses the skills needed to perform specialized procedures that target the root cause of thoracic outlet syndrome, offering relief from pain and discomfort.

Surgical treatment focuses on decompressing the affected nerves by removing or releasing the structures responsible for compression. This process may involve dividing the muscles surrounding the thoracic outlet and, in certain cases, removing a section of the first rib. 

Surgical intervention seeks to provide lasting relief from thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms by addressing the underlying cause. However, before deciding about surgery, it’s best to consult with a qualified healthcare professional who can assess your unique condition and recommend the best course of action, like the team at Anthony Echo, M.D.

If you’re a high-performance athlete and are worried you may have TOS, schedule an appointment online or over the phone at Anthony Echo, M.D., in Houston, for expert diagnosis and personalized treatment recommendations.