How can I differentiate "TOS" from other non-related cervical spine issues?
 

Hello everyone!

I know that I have issues with cervical stenosis and it has been suggested to me that I investigate "TOS". I should also mention that I live in the Atlanta area.

Here is my question ...

Are there any distinct "giveaway" symptoms that would strongly suggest "TOS", as opposed to more conventional cervical spine issues, being the cause?

Input from any experts would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you!

A newbee

I think if you have more of the vascular type TOS , you would have swelling issues/ heaviness and color changes when hands/arms are raised /lowered.

Here's a page/site with some good info-
[Vascular symptoms include:

Swelling or puffiness in the arm or hand
Bluish discoloration of the hand
Feeling of heaviness in the arm or hand
Pulsating lump above the clavicle
Deep, boring toothache-like pain in the neck and shoulder region which seems to increase at night
Easily fatigued arms and hands
Superficial vein distention in the hand


Neurologic symptoms include:
Parasthesia along the inside forearm and the palm (C8, T1 dermatome)
Muscle weakness and atrophy of the gripping muscles (long finger flexors) and small muscles of the hand (thenar and intrinsics)
Difficulty with fine motor tasks of the hand
Cramps of the muscles on the inner forearm (long finger flexors)
Pain in the arm and hand
Tingling and numbness in the neck, shoulder region, arm and hand ]
more-
http://www.nismat.org/ptcor/thoracic_outlet


How recent was your last c spine imaging or xrays?
How bad are c spine the issues that do show, or does doctor think what shows is not compatible w/ pain & symptoms you have?


mainly the rest is by ruling in/out other factors- like jobs , previous upper body accidents, whiplash, falls, sports injuries..
What kind of work /hobbies/sports/ musical instruments/ gaming - desk/repetitive/ or much forward arms/head/shoulders postures?

Also check into trigger points - they can cause lots of problems, pain & symptoms.
You can check for many of these yourself or have a friend help out.
http://www.pressurepointer.com/pain_reference_chart.htm