Condition Pain Condition Benchmarked

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Compression of neurovascular structures in the thoracic outlet causing arm numbness, pain, or weakness. Assessment targets scalene tension, first rib mobility, pec minor length, and cervical posture.

Clinical note: Vascular thoracic outlet syndrome (arterial or venous) requires immediate medical referral. Neurogenic type responds to conservative management in most cases.
6
ROM Tests
4
Corrective Priorities
4
Risk Factors
5
Red Flags

Key ROM Tests

1 Cervical Lateral Flexion
2 Cervical Flexion Extension
3 Shoulder Horizontal Abduction
4 Thoracic Extension
5 Scapular Position
6 Diaphragmatic Assessment

Risk Factors Assessed

Cervical Lateral Flexion
Shoulder Horizontal Abduction
Thoracic Extension
Scapular Position

Expected Timeline

8-16 weeks for mild neurogenic, 16-24 weeks for moderate, vascular type requires surgical referral

Frequently Asked Questions

Can thoracic outlet syndrome be corrected with exercise?
Typical improvement timeline is 8-16 weeks for mild neurogenic, 16-24 weeks for moderate, vascular type requires surgical referral. The protocol includes 4 prioritized corrective interventions and screens for red flags that require medical referral.
What assessments are done for thoracic outlet syndrome?
The protocol assesses Cervical Lateral Flexion, Cervical Flexion Extension, Shoulder Horizontal Abduction, Thoracic Extension. Each test identifies the specific driver of the condition, guiding the corrective sequence.
Is thoracic outlet syndrome the same for everyone?
No. The assessment differentiates structural from functional causes and identifies the individual's primary driver. The corrective plan is ordered by priority, with the highest-leverage corrections addressed first.
How do I get started with the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome protocol?
Apply for an assessment through AKMI. Your coach will run the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome protocol as part of your initial structural evaluation, then build a personalized corrective plan based on the findings.

Get your Thoracic Outlet Syndrome assessment

Your coach runs this protocol as part of your structural evaluation, then builds a personalized corrective plan based on the data.

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Protocol Details

Category
Condition
Subcategory
Pain Condition
ROM Tests
6
Corrective Targets
4
Benchmarked
Yes
Red Flag Screens
5
Timeline
8-16 weeks for mild neurogenic, 16-24 weeks for moderate, vascular type requires surgical referral
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