Mar 02 2025 15 mins 2

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) occurs when blood vessels and nerves in the upper chest become compressed, leading to pain, numbness, swelling, or circulation problems in the arms. Jarrad Rowse, M.D., a vascular surgeon, explains the three types of TOS — neurogenic, venous, and arterial — why they develop, and how they are diagnosed. He discusses multidisciplinary treatment approaches, including physical therapy, pain management, and surgery when needed.