Understanding the Difference Between Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

When people experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in their arms and hands, they often assume it's carpal tunnel syndrome — but another condition, called thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), can cause very similar symptoms. Understanding the differences between these two issues is key to getting the right treatment and lasting relief.

Let’s take a closer look at what sets them apart:

What Is Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

Carpal tunnel syndrome happens when the median nerve — which runs from your forearm into your hand — gets compressed at the wrist.

The "carpal tunnel" is a narrow passageway in your wrist made up of bones and ligaments. When tissues like tendons become inflamed, they can crowd this space, putting pressure on the nerve.

Common symptoms include:

• Numbness or tingling in the thumb, index, middle, and part of the ring finger

• Weakness in the hand

• Dropping objects due to poor grip strength

• Symptoms often worse at night or when using the hands repetitively (typing, texting, etc.)

Key point:
👉 Carpal tunnel symptoms mostly show up in the hand and wrist.

What Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) occurs when the nerves or blood vessels are compressed between the collarbone and the first rib — higher up, closer to the neck and shoulder.

This compression can happen for many reasons: poor posture, muscle tightness, injuries, repetitive movements, or even anatomical differences like an extra rib.

Common symptoms include:

• Tingling, numbness, or pain that radiates from the neck and shoulder down into the arm and hand

• Weakness or fatigue in the arm

• Coldness, discoloration, or swelling in the arm (if blood vessels are compressed)

• Symptoms often worsen with certain arm positions, like reaching overhead

Key point:
👉 Thoracic outlet syndrome symptoms often start at the neck or shoulder and radiate down the entire arm.

How to Tell the Difference

While both conditions can cause tingling and weakness in the hands, the source of the problem — and where the symptoms begin — is different.

Carpal Tunnel SyndromeThoracic Outlet SyndromeLocationWrist and handNeck, shoulder, arm, and handMain CauseCompression at the wristCompression near collarbone/first ribWorsening MovementsHand use, typing, grippingArm positions (overhead, carrying)Nerve InvolvedMedian nerve at wristBrachial plexus (nerve bundle at shoulder)

Why This Matters

If you're treating carpal tunnel but the root cause is actually TOS (or vice versa), you may not get full relief. That's why a careful assessment is so important — sometimes even both conditions can exist at once!

At Medela Bodywork and Wellness, we offer personalized care that helps uncover the true source of your discomfort. Through therapeutic massage, posture education, and bodywork focused on releasing tension, we help clients find relief — not just temporarily, but at the root level.

✨ Experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness in your arms or hands?
Let's work together to figure out what's going on and create a plan for healing. 🌿