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Anatomy · IA-NEC-ANA-004

Thoracic Outlet Anatomy

See the tight passage between the neck and shoulder where the brachial plexus and blood vessels travel toward the arm.

View in 3DBrowse Neck

Thoracic outlet anatomy showing the brachial plexus in teal between the neck and shoulder.

Overview

The thoracic outlet is the passage from the lower neck and upper chest into the arm. The brachial plexus and major blood vessels travel through this area around the scalene muscles, first rib and collarbone.

Why It Matters

This space naturally changes with posture and arm position. Symptoms that are provoked by positions can be related to several structures, so thoracic outlet syndrome is assessed by the full pattern rather than one test.

Watch Out For

A suddenly cold, pale or blue arm, notable arm swelling, or abrupt weakness needs urgent assessment.

References

  1. StatPearls. "Thoracic Outlet Syndrome." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557450/
This information is for education only and is not a medical diagnosis.

Injuries commonly linked to this structure.

Injuries · IA-NEC-INJ-005

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome can cause arm and hand numbness, tingling or weakness. Learn the typical pattern, how it is diagnosed, and what treatment helps.

7 min read · Consensus (expert/textbook)Read guide →

Exercises and rehab guidance drawn from this structure's linked injuries.

Exercise

Chin Tucks

Learn how to do the chin tuck exercise for deep neck flexor strength and neck conditioning, including form cues, easier versions and progressions.

4 min read · beginnerView guide →

Recovery timelines for injuries linked to this structure.

No linked recovery guidance yet for this structure.

Educational information only

This information does not diagnose an injury or replace care from a qualified healthcare professional.