Effect of osteopathic technique on respiratory parameters and pain in thoracic outlet syndrome

J Bodyw Mov Ther. 2026 Jun;46:262-266. doi: 10.1016/j.jbmt.2025.10.051. Epub 2025 Nov 1.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: To help patients with thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) regain pulmonary function and endurance, it's critical to enhance their inspiratory muscle strength and endurance as well as their perception of pain.

OBJECTIVE: to reduce pain and enhance breathing characteristics in patients with thoracic outlet syndrome.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Following the start of TOS, forty adults were divided into two equal groups at random. Group B underwent a traditional physical therapy program consisting of three sessions per week for three months, whereas Group A was assigned to a program consisting of one session of osteopathic technique per week and traditional physical therapy program consisting of three sessions per week for three months. Measured at baseline and three months later, the following respiratory measures were chosen using a spirometer: maximum inspiratory pressure (MIP), maximum expiratory pressure (MEP), and a visual analogue scale of pain severity.

RESULTS: The forced expiratory volume in 1 s (P = 0.0001), forced vital capacity (P = 0.0001), maximum inspiratory pressure (P = 0.002), maximal expiratory pressure (P = 0.0001), upper arm discomfort (P = 0.0001), and neck pain (P = 0.0001) between Group A and Group B were all significantly different (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION: Thoracic outlet syndrome pain can be effectively reduced and respiratory parameters can be positively impacted by osteopathic treatment when combined with a traditional physical therapy program.

PMID:41927182 | DOI:10.1016/j.jbmt.2025.10.051