The chiropractic cure: Thoracic outlet syndrome

TOS happens when nerves or blood vessels just below your neck are compressed or squeezed. The compression occurs between the muscles of your neck and shoulders or between the first rib and collarbone. Thoracic outlet syndrome has various causes, including exercise-related injuries, car accidents, pregnancy, obesity or anatomical defects (i.e., extra ribs). Symptoms of TOS can vary from intermittent symptoms that are rather mild to constant symptoms that are quite severe.

Burning, tingling, or numb sensations may occur along your arm, hands, and fingers. Due to nerve compression of the brachial plexus, pain or numbness is usually felt in the arm, shoulder or neck. However, pain can radiate to the hands and fingers, resulting in weakness. It’s suggested that patients don’t keep their arms held above their heads or outward for a long period of time. Heavy lifting of objects should also be avoided.

TOS is more common in women and usually starts between 20-50 years of age. Since pregnancy is one of the causes of TOS, woman are slightly more prone to TOS. Some risk factors also include people who work in fields and regularly use their upper extremities against some force of resistance, people who lift weights, and those who are obese.

Injury, anatomical defect, poor posture, pregnancy and repetitive movement can cause TOS. Preventing or reducing the onset of TOS is very likely. Individuals can avoid lifting heavy objects too frequently or reduce extra weight if they’re obese. Maintaining a good posture and adjusting your activities can also reduce the symptoms of TOS.

Chiropractic care can safely, gently remove the pressure from your neck and shoulders. To treat thoracic outlet syndrome, we usually focus on the upper cervical region and work to mobilize and manipulate the joints. Doing so can help initiate balance back into the joints of the neck and spine, as well as the muscles of the neck.

Do you or someone you know suffer from thoracic outlet syndrome? Call us at (818) 841-2442 and we can help reduce or eliminate your symptoms.