Why Arm-Raised Venograms Are Often Misinterpreted in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome In my clinical experience, one of the most misunderstood aspects of evaluating Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is the interpretation of arm-raised venogram findings. Many individuals are told that a temporary blockage seen only when the arm is elevated proves the need for first rib resection or […]
Why So Many Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Patients Are Sent for Surgery In my clinical experience, one of the most misunderstood aspects of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is why such a high number of individuals are ultimately recommended for first rib resection and scalenectomy. Many patients assume this recommendation means surgery is unavoidable. In reality, operative intervention […]
The Alarming Rise of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Teenagers In my clinical experience, one of the most concerning trends in recent years is the rapid rise of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in teenagers. Even more alarming is the growing number of adolescents being referred for invasive procedures such as first rib resection and scalenectomy. Twenty or […]
When Correct Diagnosis Changes the Outcome in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome When a patient travels more than 9,000 miles for severe Thoracic Outlet Syndrome evaluation and allows only five days for change, the pressure feels intense. Many assume this urgency forces a different level of focus. In reality, my clinical process does not change. The objective […]
Why the Right Diagnosis Often Appears Only When Insurance Is Removed In my clinical experience, one of the most revealing moments in healthcare happens when insurance is taken out of the equation. I often tell patients that if they truly want an accurate diagnosis, they should walk into a doctor’s office and say, “I have […]
Why the Roos Test Does Not Tell You Where Thoracic Outlet Compression Comes From Raise your arms overhead and repeatedly open and close your hands. This maneuver, known as the Roos Test, is one of the most widely used screening tools for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. If your hands become weak, heavy, numb, or tingly, the […]
Why Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Surgery Is Often Recommended Too Quickly Patients often ask why surgeons recommend first rib resection and scalenectomy so early in the course of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. In theory, surgery is intended to create space in a narrowed thoracic outlet. In practice, the reasons surgery is offered are far more varied—and not […]
Why Most Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treatments Fail to Stop Compression In my clinical experience, one of the most misunderstood aspects of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is why so many individuals fail to improve despite trying nearly every available treatment. When patients search the medical literature, they often discover that more than a dozen treatment options are […]
Chronic Neck and Shoulder Pain: Why Inflammation, Muscle Guarding, and Brain Chemistry Trap the Thoracic Outlet Introduction: When Pain Becomes a Neurological Pattern Chronic neck pain, chronic shoulder pain, and chronic neck and shoulder pain are rarely isolated problems. When symptoms become constant neck pain or constant neck and shoulder pain, the issue has often […]
Many people try simple stretches when their neck feels tight or irritated. One of the most common movements is the classic side-bending stretch, where a person gently pulls the head toward one shoulder. In my clinical experience, many individuals assume this movement will ease pressure or loosen the neck. Yet for people with a narrowed […]
