Hi Pix

Regarding fibrous bands, there is no way to see that they are there except for visual inspection. I also had one constricting the nerve on my elbow. The presence of these bands is what makes folks still have symptoms despite lots of strengthening and phys therapy and posture improvement.

My case involved two different things going on: 1) shoulder instability and 2) TOS neurogenic and maybe arterial.

Duration: For about 18 years, tingling and numbness in my little and ring finger, sensation of hand weakness and shoulder pain.

Diagnosed back then with TOS and told "get phys therapy". It worked for a while and I settled on twice per month deep tissue massage ($$$).

Fast forward to 2005, had shoulder stabilization surgery (with a re-do in 2008). Most symptoms resolved. Shoulder symptoms fixed, but then gradually hand and forearm symptoms returned. (The weak feeling is strange, because my grip strength is good, but the sensation is that I have to "think" about holding the glass or I feel like I'll drop it).

12 months ago, I had had enough of this, so went back to shoulder surgeon. He sent me to a vascular (TOS) surgeon and also a hand surgeon. Decided on the carpel and cubital tunnel release (9 months ago) first since its an easy surgery. There was a tight band constricting ulnar nerve. Then sent to more physical therapy to see if we can get the TOS symptoms resolved. I do strength training and there wasn't much the phys therapist could do for me.

At christmas, having so much trouble even using my hand to cook I decided "this is it". Saw a few different vascular surgeons, did the procedure last week. I am very very glad I finally tended to it.