Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Assessing the Elevation Chain

presented by Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT

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Disclosure Statement:

Satisfactory completion requirements: All disciplines must complete learning assessments to be awarded credit, no minimum score required unless otherwise specified within the course.

MedBridge is committed to accessibility for all of our subscribers. If you are in need of a disability-related accommodation, please contact [email protected]. We will process requests for reasonable accommodation and will provide reasonable accommodations where appropriate, in a prompt and efficient manner.

Accreditation Check:

What do I do with patients that hurt all over? Why does the carpal tunnel symptoms seem to keep coming back? This course continues with the examination process for disputed neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome with emphasis on joint-specific testing for compressors.

CHTs, when submitting this for recertification through HTCC, this course can be used for CAT B (hand therapy courses < 3 hours in length); however, if this course certificate is submitted with the following course certificates listed below (or any combination totaling 3 hours or more), they can be submitted under CAT A (hand therapy courses > 3 hours in length).

Identification & Evaluation of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (2 hours)

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Assessing the Elevation Chain (1.25 hours)

Treatment of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Where to Begin (1.75 hours)

Treatment of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Addressing Shoulder and Upper Thoracic Limitations (1.5 hours)

Meet Your Instructor

Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT

Ann Porretto-Loehrke is a skilled clinician and dynamic instructor. She is the therapy manager of a large department at the Hand to Shoulder Center. Ann is a Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) and a Certified Orthopedic Manual Therapist (COMT) for treatment of the upper quadrant through the International Academy of Orthopedic Medicine (IAOM). She has extensive…

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Chapters & Learning Objectives

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1. Scapular & Elevation Chain Assessment

Poor scapular alignment and limited mobility in the upper extremity elevation chain can contribute to TOS, especially with compressors. This chapter covers how to assess resting scapular position and dynamic control as well as performing the Passive Elevation Test to determine if further joint-specific testing is indicated at the acromioclavicular joint (ACJ) or sternoclavicular joint (SCJ).

2. Glenohumeral Joint Assessment

Posterior glenohumeral joint (GHJ) tightness can contribute to poor scapular mechanics. In addition, end-range GHJ limitations can contribute to TOS “compressor” symptoms. This chapter covers how to assess posterosuperior and posteroinferior GHJ with the arm at the side as well as how the Passive Elevation Test can determine if further joint-specific testing is indicated at the GHJ at end-range.

3. Cervicothoracic Assessment

Stiffness in the upper thoracic spine can be a culprit with poor scapular mechanics and brachial plexus issues. This chapter covers how to assess upper thoracic extension and rotation mobility.