Cervical Rib Complications: Understanding Potential Risks & Symptoms

* Thoracic outlet syndrome: A cervical rib can compress the nerves and blood vessels that run through the thoracic outlet, the space between the collarbone and the first rib. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and tingling in the arm and hand, as well as weakness in the arm and hand.

* Neurological symptoms: A cervical rib can also compress the spinal cord, leading to a variety of neurological symptoms, such as difficulty walking, incontinence, and sexual dysfunction.

* Vascular symptoms: A cervical rib can also compress the blood vessels that run through the thoracic outlet, leading to a variety of vascular symptoms, such as swelling in the arm and hand, as well as a bluish discoloration of the arm and hand.

* Other symptoms: A cervical rib can also cause a variety of other symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, and fatigue.