Brachial Vein Thrombosis Treatment

Brachial vein thrombosis is one of the disorders that falls under thoracic outlet syndrome. This syndrome occurs in the thoracic outlet, the spot between your collarbone and first rib. The blood vessels in this area compress, causing neck and shoulder pain and numbness in the fingers. Treatment usually entails physical therapy and pain management. In some cases, surgery is recommended.

Physical Therapy and Relaxation

• Physical therapy exercises improve shoulder strength, allowing you to open the thoracic outlet, increase range of motion and correct poor posture. The exercises will decrease pressure in the blood vessels and nerves in this part of the body. It is important to do these exercises regularly to keep your shoulder muscles as strong as possible.

  Relaxation techniques like deep breathing and positive imagery help prevent tensing in your shoulders, while improving posture as well.

Medications

• Certain medications combat inflammation and muscle tension. Your doctor might recommend pain relievers, muscle relaxers and anti-inflammatories like aspirin or ibuprofen.

Surgery

• For most people, the mild treatments above offer suitable relief, but for people suffering from significant nerve damage or more intense pain, surgery might be necessary to improve symptoms.

  The anterior supraclavicular approach fixes compressed blood vessels. The surgery requires an incision under your neck to reveal the damaged areas. The surgeon identifies any trauma or fibrous bands causing the compression and repairs the damaged vessels.

  Transaxillary approach relieves compression by removing a portion of the first rib. This treatment has the advantage of leaving the nerves and blood vessels undisturbed.

Other Suggestions

• Try to avoid repetitive movements involving this part of your body and lifting heavy objects. Especially avoid carry things like heavy bags over your shoulder. Try to maintain a normal weight since excess weight worsens symptoms.