Identification and Evaluation of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Presented by Ann Porretto-Loehrke
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What do I do with patients that hurt all over? Why do carpal tunnel symptoms seem to keep coming back? This course is designed to assist practicing therapists in identifying key features of thoracic outlet syndrome and provide guidance for evaluating these patients using a manual therapy approach. Obtaining a pertinent history and performing a thorough physical examination will give therapists the tools to identify disputed neurogenic TOS and prioritize the patient’s impairments.
CHTs, when submitting this for recertification through HTCC, this course can be used for CAT B (hand therapy courses < 3 hours in length); however, if this course certificate is submitted with the following course certificates listed below (or any combination totaling 3 hours or more), they can be submitted under CAT A (hand therapy courses > 3 hours in length).
Meet your instructor
Ann Porretto-Loehrke
Ann Porretto-Loehrke is a skilled clinician with a passion for teaching and clinical treatment of upper extremity disorders. She has been practicing for 30 years and teaching continuing education courses for the past 20. She is the Clinical Development Coordinator at the Hand to Shoulder Center in Appleton, Wisconsin. Ann is…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Types of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
This chapter covers the anatomy of the thoracic outlet and the types of thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS). It is important to differentiate vascular versus neurogenic TOS to identify the most appropriate therapy intervention.
2. Clinical Testing for TOS
This chapter identifies key information to glean from the patient history, as well as instruction on how to perform a cervical screen and clinical testing for disputed neurogenic TOS. Therapists will develop an understanding of a cluster of tests needed to confirm the diagnosis of TOS.
3. 1st & 2nd Rib Mobility Assessment
This chapter covers the mechanics of the 1st and 2nd ribs, reviews how motion occurs at both the costovertebral and costotransverse joints, followed by instruction in how to assess 1st and 2nd ribs mobility. This is critical for TOS patients, as an elevated 1st rib can contribute to brachial plexus irritation at both the scalene triangle and costoclavicular space.
More courses in this series
Identification and Evaluation of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Ann Porretto-Loehrke
Treatment of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Where to Begin
Ann Porretto-Loehrke
Treatment of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Addressing Shoulder and Upper Thoracic Limitations
Ann Porretto-Loehrke
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Assessing the Elevation Chain
Ann Porretto-Loehrke