What are the treatment options for thoracic outlet syndrome?

Thoracic outlet syndrome involves compression or irritation of nerves or blood vessels as they pass between the neck, chest and upper limb. Symptoms can include arm pain, tingling, heaviness, colour change or fatigue with overhead activity. The treatment plan depends on which structures are affected and whether symptoms are neurogenic, venous or arterial.

An assessment looks at shoulder position, neck and chest movement, strength, sensation and circulation. That helps separate this condition from problems arising in the neck, shoulder or wrist.

[Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) may use breathing, mobility, shoulder-blade control and gradual strengthening to reduce strain around the outlet. [Postural Correction Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/postural-correction-therapy/) can help you practise positions that reduce sustained elevation or forward shoulder loading.

Until assessed, avoid repeatedly carrying heavy loads on one shoulder or holding the arm overhead for long periods. A clinician may adapt work, exercise and sleeping positions; vascular or neurological findings may require additional specialist investigation.

Arrange medical assessment for persistent arm tingling, weakness, heaviness or symptoms that appear with overhead use. Seek urgent care for sudden swelling, marked colour change, a cold hand, severe pain, chest symptoms, or rapidly worsening weakness or numbness.

Ask which structure appears affected, which movements to limit, what rehabilitation targets are appropriate, and which circulation or nerve changes should prompt urgent review.