Horner's Syndrome
A rare disorder involving the sympathetic nervous system, particularly nerves to the face and eyes. It can co-exist with thoracic outlet syndrome due to compression affecting nerves as well as stellate ganglion (cervicothoracic ganglion). Horner’s is typically a sign that results from another medical problem such as a tumor, spinal cord injury, or stroke. One sign to watch for is that the nerve impairment typically only presents with unilateral involvement, similar to thoracic outlet syndrome. Symptoms to observe for include: ptosis (drooping eyelid), decreased sweating primarily on the involved side, or miosis (decreased pupil diameter). Sympathetics control sweating and circulation, which is why the physical therapist may observe these autonomic changes. Horner’s Syndrome is often classified as either central or peripheral. There is no specific treatment recommended for this condition. Ptosis of the eye and a constricted pupil (miosis) are signs of Horner’s Syndrome that do not occur in thoracic outlet syndrome. Radiological, autonomic, and neurological testing is required to appropriately differentiate between Horner’s Syndrome and thoracic outlet syndrome.
(Dutton, 2008; Watson et. al., 2009)
(Dutton, 2008; Watson et. al., 2009)