thoracic outlet syndromes

thoracic outlet syndromes

A group of conditions in which nerves to the arm, or the SUBCLAVIAN ARTERY, are compressed or angulated by a CERVICAL RIB, an abnormal first rib, the edges of muscles in the region or by a band of tissue running from the side of the lowest neck vertebra to the first rib. The effects include pain, tingling and numbness in the arm and hand, on the little finger border, and weakness or even atrophy of the small muscles of the hand. Surgical treatment may be needed to relieve the pressure.