Scalenus Anticus Syndrome is a medical condition characterized by the compression or impingement of important nerves and blood vessels housed within the neck region, specifically the scalenus anterior muscle. This muscle is located on the side of the neck and stretches from the cervical vertebrae to the first rib.
When this syndrome occurs, the scalenus anterior muscle becomes hypertonic or undergoes an abnormal increase in muscle tone. This can lead to the narrowing of the space between the scalene muscles, causing compression of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that innervate the upper limb, and the subclavian artery, a major blood vessel supplying the arm.
The compression exerted on these vital structures can result in a range of symptoms including pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the upper extremities. Patients may experience difficulty in lifting and holding objects, reduced grip strength, and muscle wasting over time. Sometimes, a dull ache or a throbbing pain may be felt in the neck, shoulder, or arm, which can exacerbate with certain movements or sustained postures.
Scalenus Anticus Syndrome is commonly associated with repetitive strain injuries, poor posture, trauma, or abnormal anatomy, such as a cervical rib. Diagnosis is made through clinical examination, which may involve assessing muscle asymmetry, performing specific provocative tests, and confirming the compression through imaging techniques like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans.
Treatment for Scalenus Anticus Syndrome typically includes a combination of conservative approaches, such as physical therapy, posture correction, stretching exercises, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to alleviate pain and inflammation. In severe cases, when conservative measures fail, surgical intervention may be required to release the compression on the affected nerves and blood vessels.
