Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a complex condition that can manifest in a variety of symptoms such as pain, weakness, numbness, tingling, sensation of coldness, or general discomfort in parts of the upper body. It often affects the arms, hands, armpits, upper back, neck, and pectoral area. The root cause of TOS is typically the compression or pressure on nerves or blood vessels passing through the thoracic outlet, leading to these symptoms.
Peripheral neuropathy is another condition that can cause similar symptoms, involving damage to nerve fibers throughout the body. This usually starts in the limbs, particularly the toes, and manifests as reduced sensation, tingling, burning, itching, weakness, twitching, or muscle shrinkage.
Numbness or tingling is often a result of nerve function problems, either due to direct nerve injury, compression of the nerve, or imbalances in the body’s chemistry that affect nerve function. This can lead to a reduced or absent feeling in the skin or a “pins and needles” sensation.
In the case of TOS, this discomfort can also occur in other parts of the upper body including the chest, neck, head, and ears. It’s important to be aware of these symptoms as they can sometimes indicate serious conditions like a stroke or multiple sclerosis. These conditions require immediate medical attention, especially if the numbness or tingling is sudden, continuous, or only affects one side of the body.
A neurologist should be consulted if such symptoms persist. Numbness or tingling, particularly if it’s sudden or one-sided, can be indicative of a stroke. Primary care doctors can evaluate these symptoms, but immediate help is necessary if a stroke is suspected.
Constant pressure on a nerve can create a “roadblock,” hindering the nervous system’s ability to transmit electrical impulses and leading to numbness. Sometimes, irritation of the nerves can cause unnecessary signals, leading to a tingling sensation, known as paresthesia.
For further information on Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, you can visit HSS. To understand more about the causes of tingling or numbness in the arms and legs, visit Harvard Health. For additional details on numbness and tingling symptoms, see Harvard Health. For more information on TOS, check out University of Rochester Health Encyclopedia. To learn about numbness and tingling after COVID-19, refer to Wicha Lab. For considerations about when arm numbness and tingling is a cause for concern, visit USC Internal Medicine. To understand when to see a neurologist, explore University of Utah Health. For insights into the “pins and needles” feeling, visit University of Rochester.
