get your free consultation
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) can sometimes start out looking like a bruise but can be dangerous if left untreated. TOS describes a group of disorders that occur when nerves and/or blood vessels (arteries and veins) in the lower neck and upper chest area become compressed, injured, or irritated. It’s advisable to contact a personal injury lawyer for help if you have been hurt by the negligence of someone else.
There are three different types of TOS, so signs and symptoms can vary:
Most cases (90%) involve neurogenic TOS (nTOS), which affects the brachial plexus. This is a network of nerves extending from the backside of the base of the neck through the armpit. Symptoms can include:
These symptoms often overlap with other conditions, resulting in many patients suffering from nTOS for months or years before a diagnosis.
At least one vein under the collarbone is compressed, which can cause blood clots or Paget-Schroetter syndrome (effort thrombosis). Symptoms include:
At least one artery under the collarbone is compressed. Symptoms include:
A severe bruise is also referred to as a hematoma. It occurs as a result of damage to one of the larger blood vessels in the body. Symptoms include:
Sometimes, a hematoma may require surgical drainage, for instance, if the blood puts pressure on the spinal cord, brain, or other organs. The primary ways to distinguish TOS from a bruise are that the pain of TOS typically increases when raising the affected arm, and there will normally be tingling or a loss of feeling.
Trauma is one of the most common causes of TOS, such as car accidents. In collisions, the body may be suddenly thrown or experience a prolonged crushing sensation or pinning of the shoulder, which can lead to the condition. Repetitive stress is also a primary factor in TOS, for instance, due to work-related tasks such as carrying heavy shoulder loads or participating in sports that require repetitive arm or shoulder movement like baseball, golfing, volleyball, swimming, etc. Other causes include stress or depression, weightlifting, poor posture, sleep disorders, or tumors or large lymph nodes in the upper chest or underarm area.
If you are suffering from Thoracic Outlet Syndrome as the result of an injury, our St. Louis Personal Injury Lawyer can help you determine if there is anyone to hold legally responsible. Call (314) 231-4100 or message us online to schedule a free consultation today.
Justice isn’t optional—we’ll fight until you get what you’re owed.
1- What causes a bruise on the neck?
Neck bruises can result from trauma, whiplash, hickeys, or rare medical conditions affecting blood vessels. They may also follow falls, sports injuries, or accidents.
2- When should I seek medical attention for a neck bruise?
Seek medical help if you have trouble breathing, severe pain, throat trauma, rapidly spreading bruising, or signs of infection like redness or fever.
3- How can I treat a neck bruise at home?
Use ice packs, keep the area elevated, rest, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to reduce swelling and discomfort.
Jeff Singer, Managing Partner at Goldblatt + Singer for over a decade, is a seasoned personal injury attorney known for his compassionate yet tough advocacy. He has resolved hundreds of cases and recovered millions for clients. Recognized as a Missouri Super Lawyer and Top 100 National Trial Lawyer, Jeff also serves on the Missouri Bar’s Chief Disciplinary Committee and the Board of Governors for the Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys.
This page has been created, edited, and reviewed by a team of legal writers following our thorough editorial guidelines. It was approved by our Founding Partner, Jeffrey Singer, who has over 30 years of experience as a personal injury attorney.
call us at (314) 936-3434