In the treatment of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, which muscle group should be strengthened?

• A. Scapular elevators
• B. Scapular retractors
• C. Triceps
• D. Anterior deltoid

Answer: (A)

Maintaining proper scapulothoracic alignment to keep the thoracic outlet open is the goal. Strengthening scapular elevators helps hold the shoulder girdle in a more upright, stable position, promoting upward rotation and better scapular alignment. This reduces the tendency for depression or protraction that can narrow the space around the clavicle and first rib, thereby decreasing compression of the nerves and vessels during arm movements. The other options don’t directly affect the scapular position or the outlet space in the same way, so they’re less relevant to alleviating the compression seen in thoracic outlet syndrome.