Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, a life sentence
 

Was diagnosed with TOS in 2018 and had my cervical rib removed in 2021. Learned about an interventional radiological procedure where they used ultrasound to inject Botox into the nerve beds of the anterior scalene muscle called a “scalene block” from my pain management Doc who during his residency, learned of a patient that had one.

It has been a long, painful, lonely and spiritually altering journey for me and I still have not met one other person that has either had the block or the rib resection.

Would love to hear from you if you have, but am happy to share my experience and knowledge with those struggling with diagnosis and treatment issues.

I think there are past posts on scalene botox blocks.
Our site search should find some posts on the topic. They might be a few years back

https://www.neurotalk.org/search.php

Hi Carbophile,

In 2004 I had the double rib resection (left and right) including removing 1st rib, both sides. When that offered incomplete relief I also had bi-lateral pec minor disinsertion. Happy to answer any questions that aren't addressed in my past posts.

Yeah, it's going to change your life. It will drive some people away. It can be a very lonely road. But, over time (like 10 years) it gets better, more manageable, if you learn how to adjust your life. Your working days will be over if you want the pain to stop, so prepare to apply for disability. Hey - it's better than losing your arms!

Best to you, :hug:
Anne