Author

Morgan Burrer

Date of Award

5-2021

Document Type

Thesis

First Advisor

Steven Halcrow

Keywords

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, cervical radiculopathy, cervical nerve roots, impaired cervicothoracic mobility, neural symptoms, cervical distraction

Abstract

Background and Purpose. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a condition that produces symptoms of pain, numbness, and weakness that may affect the arm, shoulder, or neck. Similarly, cervical radiculopathy is a condition resulting from the compression of cervical nerve roots. The purpose of this case report is to describe an appropriate outpatient physical therapy intervention program for a 69-year-old male who has the diagnoses of cervical radiculopathy, impaired cervicothoracic mobility, and thoracic outlet syndrome.

Case Description. The patient had a significant past medical history including coronary artery disease, chronic pain, and a C4-C5 fusion. His primary goal was to decrease his pain and neural symptoms.

Intervention. Treatment included manual therapy techniques including cervical distraction and mobilizations, therapeutic exercises and therapeutic activities focused on strengthening postural muscles.

Outcomes. The patient reported decreased pain, improved cervical range of motion, improved tolerance to activity, and decrease in neural symptom frequency, intensity, and duration.

Discussion. This case report may suggest a benefit of conservative physical therapy intervention for the management of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and cervical radiculopathy.

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