Which muscle is NOT listed as a target for lengthening in TOS physical therapy?

• A. Scalene
• B. Levator scapulae
• C. Pec minor
• D. Latissimus dorsi

Answer: (D)

In thoracic outlet syndrome rehab, the stretches focus on muscles that directly influence the space where the neurovascular bundle passes between the neck and arm. Tight scalene muscles can narrow the space at the thoracic inlet, the pec minor can tilt the shoulder girdle forward and compress under the coracoid, and the levator scapulae can contribute to elevated, tense shoulder blades that alter outlet mechanics. These three are commonly targeted for lengthening to relieve compression. The latissimus dorsi isn’t typically a primary target in this context because it doesn’t directly affect the thoracic inlet space; its stretch would mainly influence shoulder movement and posture rather than the specific outlet compression.