Neurogenic Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Athletes — Nonsurgical Treatment Options
- 1 June 2021
- journal article
- review article
- Published by Ovid Technologies (Wolters Kluwer Health) in Optometry and Vision Science
- Vol. 20 (6), 319-326
- https://doi.org/10.1249/jsr.0000000000000854
Abstract
Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome (NTOS) is an etiologically and clinically diverse disorder caused by compression of the brachial plexus traversing the thoracic outlet. Athletes who perform repetitive overhead activities are at risk of developing NTOS with sport-specific symptoms. This article reviews the controversial NTOS nomenclature, common sites of anatomic compression, and red flag symptoms that require immediate intervention. It also reviews the congenital, traumatic, and functional etiologies of NTOS, with a discussion of the differential diagnosis, diagnostic criteria, and workup for NTOS. Nonsurgical treatment is highlighted with an emphasis on thoracic outlet syndrome-specific physical therapy and updates on injection options and ultrasound guided hydrodissection. This article compares nonsurgical versus surgical functional outcome data with an emphasis on athletes with NTOS. Functional assessment tools and performance metrics for athletes are reviewed, as well as return to sport considerations.This publication has 35 references indexed in Scilit:
- Botulinum toxin injection for management of thoracic outlet syndrome: A double-blind, randomized, controlled trialPain, 2011
- The influence of choice of therapy on quality of life in patients with neurogenic thoracic outlet syndromeBritish Journal of Neurosurgery, 2010
- Thoracic outlet syndrome: a controversial clinical condition. Part 2: non-surgical and surgical managementJournal of Manual & Manipulative Therapy, 2010
- Return-to-Play Criteria Following Sports InjuryClinics in Sports Medicine, 2010
- Diagnosis of thoracic outlet syndromeJournal of Vascular Surgery, 2007
- Thoracic Outlet SyndromeNeurosurgery, 2004
- Thoracic outlet syndrome: Provocative examination maneuvers in a typical populationJournal of Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, 1995
- The Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Is OverdiagnosedArchives of Neurology, 1990
- Congenital anomalies associated with thoracic outlet syndrome: Anatomy, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatmentThe American Journal of Surgery, 1976
- Wasting of the hand associated with a cervical rib or bandJournal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, 1970