Investigation of the efficacy of spinal stabilization exercises in addition to conventional physiotherapy and rehabilitation program in thoracic outlet syndrome patients

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of conventional physiotherapy and rehabilitation practices as well as spinal stabilization exercises on pain, grip force, upper extremity function, kinesiophobia, respiratory functions and spinal deformity in patients with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). The study sample consisted of 28 TOS patients aged 18 to 45 years (mean: 30.879.13). Block randomization was used to assign participants into two groups: conventional therapy and stabilization therapy. Both groups received conventional physiotherapy, however, the stabilization group also performed spinal stabilization exercises two days a week for six weeks. Two evaluations were conducted: before and after treatment. The treatment resulted in a reduction in pain at rest, pain with activity, grip force, upper extremity functions, kinesiophobia, alexithymia, respiratory functions, respiratory muscle strength, spinal deformity, and symptoms in both groups (p<0.05). However, the stabilization therapy group had less spinal deformity, kinesiophobia, and grip force than the conventional therapy group after treatment (p<0.01). In conclusion, conventional therapy and stabilization exercises reduced the symptoms of TOS. However, the stabilization program has an effect on spinal deformity, and therefore, we believe that it has both therapeutic and protective benefits for TOS patients.