Learn what causes TOS and how to file a claim and maximize your workers’ comp benefits if it’s caused by your job
If you’re an Arizona worker experiencing pain, numbness, or tingling in your neck, shoulder, arm, or fingers, you might be dealing with thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). This condition, often caused by repetitive motions or traumatic injuries, can significantly impact your ability to perform your job and enjoy daily life.
This article aims to shed light on TOS, its causes, symptoms, and potential treatments. We’ll also discuss the complexities of navigating workers’ compensation claims in Arizona when dealing with this often misunderstood condition.
Whether you’re seeking a diagnosis or struggling to get the benefits you deserve, we’re here to provide the information and guidance you need on your road to recovery.
What is thoracic outlet syndrome?
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a condition that occurs when nerves or blood vessels in the space between your collarbone and first rib (the thoracic outlet) become compressed. This compression can lead to a range of symptoms, depending on which type and severity of TOS you have.
There are 3 main types of TOS:
- Neurogenic TOS. This is the most common type, caused by compression of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that runs from your neck to your arm. Symptoms typically include pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in your shoulder, arm, and hand, particularly in the fourth and fifth fingers. Symptoms often come and go and get worse when arms are held upward for extended periods of time.
- Venous TOS. This type occurs when the veins in the thoracic outlet are compressed, which often leads to blood clots. Venous TOS can cause your arm to swell, appear bluish in color, feel heavy, and tingle.
- Arterial TOS. This is the least common type, caused by compression of an artery in the thoracic outlet. Symptoms may include a cold, pale hand, weak pulse, pain or numbness in your arm or hand, and a decreased ability to grip.
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What can be mistaken for thoracic outlet syndrome?
Due to the varied and sometimes vague nature of its symptoms, thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) can often be mistaken for several other conditions, including:
- Carpal tunnel syndrome. Compression of the median nerve in the wrist can cause hand and finger numbness and tingling, similar to some TOS symptoms.
- Cervical radiculopathy. This condition involves compression or irritation of nerve roots in the neck (cervical spine), leading to pain, numbness, and weakness that can radiate down the arm, mimicking neurogenic TOS.
- Cubital tunnel syndrome. Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow can lead to numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers, particularly the pinky and ring finger, overlapping with potential TOS symptoms.
- Cervical disc herniation. A herniated disc in the neck can compress nerves, leading to pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm, similar to neurogenic TOS.
- Peripheral neuropathy. Nerve damage from conditions like diabetes or certain medications can cause numbness and tingling in the extremities, potentially resembling TOS.
- Rotator cuff injuries. Tears or inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons can lead to shoulder pain and weakness, potentially mimicking TOS symptoms.
- Shoulder impingement syndrome. This occurs when tendons in the shoulder rub against bones or tissues in the shoulder, causing pain and limited range of motion, which can sometimes be confused with TOS, especially if pain radiates down the arm.
- Multiple sclerosis (MS). MS can cause similar neurological symptoms like numbness, weakness, and tingling, but it affects multiple areas of the central nervous system.
- Fibromyalgia. This chronic pain disorder can cause widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and sleep problems, potentially leading to confusion with TOS if the pain is mainly in the shoulder and arm area.
It’s important to consult with a health care professional for a thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis, as distinguishing TOS from other conditions can be challenging. They will likely perform a physical examination, review your medical history, and may order imaging tests or nerve conduction studies to confirm the diagnosis.
Does thoracic outlet syndrome go away?
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) typically does not go away on its own, but symptoms can often be managed with treatment. Depending on the severity and type of TOS, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and pain management can significantly reduce symptoms.
In more severe cases, surgery may be required to relieve compression of nerves or blood vessels. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to improving long-term outcomes.
What causes thoracic outlet syndrome?
Car accidents are a significant cause of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), both in work-related and non-work-related situations. The sudden impact from a collision can cause trauma to the neck, shoulder, or chest area, leading to compression of the nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet.
In addition to car accidents, other work-related causes of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) often stem from repetitive or prolonged activities that put stress on the shoulder and neck areas.
Some common work-related causes include:
- Repetitive overhead reaching. Jobs that require frequent lifting or reaching above the head, such as delivery or warehouse work, can strain the muscles and compress the nerves in the thoracic outlet area.
- Carrying heavy loads. Occupations in professions like construction and landscaping, which involve lifting or carrying heavy objects, can cause compression of the nerves and blood vessels in the shoulder region.
- Vibrating tools. Use of heavy machinery or tools that produce continuous vibrations, common in logging or construction work, can irritate the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet.
- Prolonged poor posture. Desk jobs and transportation jobs that involve sitting for long periods with poor posture, especially with rounded shoulders and a forward head position, can increase the risk of TOS.
- Repetitive motions. Workers whose jobs involve continuous, repetitive arm movements, like meatpackers, restaurant workers, and department store workers, can experience pressure on the muscles and nerves in the neck and shoulder area, leading to repetitive stress injuries like TOS.
Non-work-related causes of TOS may include congenital defects like an extra rib, pregnancy, or activities like sports that involve repetitive arm movements, such as swimming or baseball.
Can you work with thoracic outlet syndrome?
Yes, it may be possible to work with thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), but it depends on the severity of your symptoms and the demands of your job.
Many individuals with TOS can manage their condition through physical therapy, lifestyle changes, and pain management, but in severe cases, adjustments to your work duties or a temporary leave of absence may be necessary to allow for treatment and recovery.
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Can I get workers’ comp benefits for thoracic outlet syndrome?
Yes, it is possible to receive workers’ compensation benefits for thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) in Arizona. Most employers in Arizona with 1 or more full-time or part-time employees are required by law to provide workers’ compensation insurance, which provides benefits for medical expenses, lost wages, and vocational rehabilitation, as well as death benefits for dependents if a worker ultimately dies from TOS.
Workers’ comp operates as a no-fault system, meaning you don’t have to prove that your employer was at fault for your injury. However, you do need to prove that your TOS is directly related to your work activities or environment.
This can be tricky in the case of thoracic outlet syndrome because it often develops gradually due to repetitive strain or overexertion, making it harder to pinpoint an exact moment of injury. Additionally, TOS can have multiple causes, both work-related and non-work-related, such as prior trauma or personal health conditions, which may complicate the process of proving that your injury is work-related.
Gathering medical evidence, expert opinions, and documentation of your work conditions is crucial to supporting your claim. Consulting with a local Arizona workers’ comp attorney can also help you navigate these challenges and get the benefits you deserve.
How do I file a workers’ comp claim for TOS in Arizona?
If you suspect you have thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) due to a work-related injury, the first step is to seek medical attention to properly diagnose and document the condition.
Once you’ve received care, you should notify your employer in writing about the injury as soon as possible. Your employer is then required to report the injury to both their workers’ compensation insurance provider and the Industrial Commission of Arizona within 10 days.
After notifying your employer, your next step is to file a claim by submitting the Worker’s and Physician’s Report of Injury form, which you can obtain from your doctor, along with the Worker’s Report of Injury form.
These documents must be submitted within 1 year of your injury. Upon receiving your claim, the insurance company has 21 days to either approve or deny it.
If your claim is denied, you have 90 days to request a hearing to appeal the decision. If you’re unsure about the process or encounter difficulties, it’s a good idea to consult with a workers’ compensation attorney to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Get help from an experienced Arizona workers’ compensation attorney
If you’re experiencing symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) and believe it may be related to your work, it’s important to act quickly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
Navigating a workers’ compensation claim, especially for conditions like TOS, can be complicated due to its gradual development and multiple potential causes. That’s why you need the help of experienced attorneys who understand the complexities of these types of workers’ comp claims.
At The Law Offices of Robert E. Wisniewski, our knowledgeable Phoenix work injury attorneys have over 45 years of experience helping Arizona workers fight for their benefits and get the medical treatment and financial support they need after a work-related injury.
Our team will guide you through every step of the process, from filing your claim to gathering evidence and appealing denials. Don’t wait to get the help you deserve—contact us today for a free consultation and let us advocate for your medical and financial recovery.
