An Uncommon Culprit: Trapezius Dystonia as a Cause of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Jul 4;16(7):e63825. doi: 10.7759/cureus.63825. eCollection 2024 Jul.

Abstract

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) results from compression of the neurovascular bundle in the thoracic outlet. Several etiologies can contribute to the development of thoracic outlet syndrome, including both congenital and acquired causes. Historically, trapezius pathology has not been considered a cause of TOS; however, here we report a patient with neurogenic TOS plus ipsilateral trapezius hypertonicity and hypertrophy who had significant symptomatic improvement following botulinum toxin injections to trapezius.

Keywords: botulinum toxin injection; neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome; thoracic outlet syndrome; trapezius hypertrophy; trapezius tightness.

Publication types

  • Case Reports