Jack,

I'm sorry you are experiencing this, and at such a young age. How long has this been going on? I know it will be very hard -- especially at your age and level of previous fitness -- but have you tried complete rest? Thoracic outlet syndrome is not like so many conditions where one can work through the pain. I've had TOS for nearly 13 years now and had unsuccessful surgery 10 years ago. Unfortunately, I've never been able to return to playing sports or working.

But, at your age, you have a better shot at a good outcome. You really need to listen to what your body is telling you. For whatever reason, it cannot take the intensity of the workouts. I would urge you to try to adopt a different mindset -- not one set on returning to the activities you used to do but, hopefully, finding different physical activities that your body can tolerate. The most difficult part of TOS, for me, is dealing with the reality of my body and my life as it is now, rather than how it once was.

Sorry to spend so much time on my soap box. I hope the symptoms will settle down with rest. Don't give up on finding some relief but you may need to make some adjustments in what you expect from yourself.

Good luck,
Kelly