Quote:
Originally Posted by nospam
Due to the enlarged subclavius muscle, your costoclavicular space is likely very tightly compressed. You are likely heading for a rib resection if PT or injections cannot help (the subclavius is resected as part of the rib resection procedure). You need to find the right PT as some PT can actually make matters worse.
I had issues with my subclavius and nothing (therapy or scalene block) was able to lower the first rib and open the costoclavicular space. Have you already tried a scalene block or botox? You can get a subclavius block in addition to the scalene block. These are usually done by a neurologist with ultrasound guidance.
I would seek out a therapist with experiencing in evaluating and treating rib disfunction (subluxation, torsion, etc). If you can't find a physiotherapist that knows ribs you may have to go to a chiropractor. Get all of your ribs checked and treated, not just the 1st.
|
Thanks for the info.
The CT scan did show my costoclavicular space to be very compressed with abduction of my arm. I have complete occlusion of my subclavian artery. Dr. Pearce did suggest the possibility of scalene/pec minor block if PT didn't work. No mention of a subclavius block. If six weeks PT does not show improvement, he will re-evaluate. If I had cervical ribs, I was prepared for surgery. Now that I know I don't have them, I really don't want to go under the knife.
As far as PT, the place I decided to try lists TOS among problems they treat. There are many Certified Functional Manual Therapists working there, which I'm hoping is a positive thing. I'm assuming I'll get PT that's different from the run-of-the mill stuff found at franchises. I have nothing against those places, as they have worked very well to help me recover from various injuries. This isn't one of those situations.
I'm very interested in seeing a chiropractor. I was treated for bad whiplash ~10 years ago and it was very effective. I'm going to pursue seeing a chiropractor, but I don't want to start at the same time as PT.
Oh, I forgot to list my main symptoms:
- vertigo/dizziness/blurred vision/disoriented feeling
- 4th & 5th digit numbness & tingling
- hand/arm pain
- color changes in hands (pale/very red/white spots/blotchiness)
- easily fatigued arms/hands