Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome is a collection of symptoms related to a narrowing of the space between the first rib and the collarbone. This narrowing can cause problems with the nerves, arteries, or veins, which pass through that space. Symptoms may include pain, swelling, numbness, skin discoloration, and blood clots in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand, depending on which structures are involved.

Specialists at NYU Langone’s Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Program have a long history of managing this uncommon condition, which other doctors may rarely encounter. Our physical therapists and occupational therapists at Rusk Rehabilitation provide treatments to relieve symptoms and improve mobility in people who have this syndrome, particularly those with nerve compression. Our vascular surgeons are experts at using noninvasive and minimally invasive procedures to diagnose this condition and treat clots in the arteries or veins.