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Originally Posted by parbie
I think that any nerve or muscle block can be diagnostic. Because you are blocking the pain receptors and if you don't feel pain while the medication is in your system, that confirms that those nerves or muscles are the source. The BP block probably isn't used as often as the scalene block for TOS, but I guess it makes sense to use it if the BP is the suspected source of pain. My neuro said that the BP lower trunk connects to the c8 and t1 nerve roots, he thinks those nerves are being stretched over my right cervical rib to connect into my BP. I am really looking forward to see what this vascular surgeon says this is will be my first TOS specialist opinion. When are you getting the c-5 block?
Also, do you know anything about the importance of positive EMG results to confirm a TOS diagnosis? A neurologist told me that "true" neurogenic TOS requires a positive EMG, however my EMG was negative so I'm not sure what to make of this. Some of the research I've read said EMG results aren't always a good indicator of TOS.
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EMG is not a positive test for TOS.Mine was abnormal for my c6 but not my TOS. I may be doing it again. Also there is a Mac test for Pec Minor involvement and an SSEP test.(I forget which nerves these are for.)The physical exam and the scalene block are the most widely accepted tests,plus what you read and KNOW are the symptoms. But there ARE NO conclusive tests. Thats what the big problem is.The fact that you have cervical Ribs are the most telling that you have TOS and is the easiest to see and correct. You just need to find the right Dr's.
Do you have numbness or tingling in your 4th or 5th finger? This is another telling sign.
Read this:
http://surgery.wustl.edu/TOS_Features.aspx
This is the TOS Consortium Website and these Dr's have come to some widely accepted conclusions. Is your Dr. who is suggesting these injections have much experience with TOS. Whats his name?