Hi SalsaQueen,

In some literature TOS is classified as a repetitive strain injury. In others, it is noted that repetitive strain injury is a major cause of TOS.

Here's an interesting webpage that has a number of different approaches and views to TOS: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: OverviewAnd an interesting point is if a nerve has a some type of injury, compression, crush, etc, it is more susceptible to injury with any other compression or crush along the nerve pathway. This is known as double crush syndrome.

Avoiding compression or crush on the nerves is a good place to start. So that's where avoidance of certain activities comes in. Releasing the compression on the nerves is the main part of treatment. Then maintaining muscle balance through stretching and strengthening comes into play.

Good luck with your treatment! I've experienced TOS myself and it is not a life sentence. So learn all you can and take those TOS relieving strategies into the future with you.