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RA and possible Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Posted , 2 users are following.

slm222
slm222

Hi All,

I was diagnosed with RA back in September. About 6 months prior to that I was diagnosed with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome by my chiropractor. None of my doctors/rheumatologist will even consider the TOS diagnosis; one, because it was diagnosed by a chiropractor (and a very good one I might add!) and docs never seem to take chiropractors seriously; and two, they all tell me it's 'rare' to have. I have 2 friends who actually have it so it can't be that rare. And repetitive use is a cause, so why wouldn't it be valid with the way we live now on computers and smart phones? I have awful shoulder pain but it's usually one shoulder at a time, and I get these awful hand cramps (again, one hand at a time) that don't allow me to sleep because lying down makes it worse. It happens maybe a few times a year and the pain is excruciating. It's like nerve pain I can't even explain. Does anyone else deal with this? Has anyone else ever been diagnosed with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome? I can't help but think I am dealing with both issues.

1 like, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • peter01102
    peter01102 slm222

    Posted

    yes message in box as no live links
    • slm222
      slm222 peter01102

      Posted

      Thanks peter! I sent you a reply. I'm going to bring it up at my next visit to my new Rheumatologist. I get the numbness and pain and I don't think it's the RA when that happens.
  • bronwyn97278
    bronwyn97278 slm222

    Posted

    Hi Seulmac22;  I don't know very much about Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, but it is a Condition.  There are various causes......can be from aTrauma to affected side, but if you say from both sides, perhaps you have a Vascular Condition, affecting the blood supply.....the best site I use for information/confirmation is the Mayo Clinic Web Site, as this is a Major Teaching Institute in America, known World Wide, and I have worked with many doctors who have Specialized here, due to it's Credibility.     Hop on, see what they say, and then take info to hour doctor/rheumatologist???    Good luck
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