Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) occurs when the nerves and vascular structures (blood vessels) from the neck get compressed as they run through the shoulder into the arm. There are a few structures that can cause the compression, namely the scalene muscles in the lower neck, the collar bone, or the pec minor muscle in the shoulder/chest area. Many times, there may also be compression in the neck due to spinal disc herniation’s or further down the arm in the elbow (supinator, pronator teres, or biceps muscles) or wrist (carpal tunnel or wrist flexor tendons). Symptoms may include numbness, tingling, weakness, pain or blanching of any of the fingers. A common sign of this is numbness or tingling into the hand or fingers when raising the arm overhead for 20-30 seconds.
Conservative management like that offered at Waverley Central Chiropractic Clinic may be very effective in treating TOS. Specifically, the focus needs to be first and foremost on correcting any postural issues and stretching the muscles that are tight and causing the pinching of the nerves. Secondly, the rehabilitation program will need to strengthen the shoulder blade stabilizers, and even address the neck stabilizers if that area has a contributing factor to the condition.
The team at Waverley Central Chiropractic Clinic will be able to properly diagnose your condition by doing a thorough exam. We will then provide treatment to help you get back to living your life the way you want!
