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Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

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Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treatment in Chiropractic-Works & Wellness Clinic 

Thoracic outlet syndrome refers to a group of conditions that develops when there is compression of the nerves, arteries, or veins in the passageway from the collarbone to the first rib called the thoracic outlet. Compression of these structures occurs when the thoracic outlet becomes too narrow which may lead to pain in the shoulders, neck, and arms as well as numbness and tingling in your hands. In most cases, the cause of thoracic outlet syndrome is not preventable; however, this painful condition is treatable at Chiropractic-Works and Wellness Clinic.

Common Symptoms

  • Fatiguing or weakness of the hands, arms and upper limb

  • Swelling of the arm

  • Numbness or tingling in the arms and fingers

  • Tender lump near your collarbone

Common Causes

  • Anatomical Defects

  • Poor Posture

  • Injury

  • Pregnancy

Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

The symptoms associated with thoracic outlet syndrome can vary depending on whether it is a nerve or blood vessel that has been affected.

Compressed blood vessels may lead to:

  • Fatiguing or weakness of the hands, arms and upper limb

  • Swelling of the arm

  • Discoloration of the hand

  • Cold hands or arms

  • Numbness or tingling in the arms and fingers

  • Tender lump near your collarbone

Compressed nerves may lead to:

  • Pain in the neck, shoulder or hand

  • Numbness or tingling in your arms and fingers

  • Weakness of your grip

Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

The cause of a compression of the nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet can vary, but typically is attributed to one or more of the following:

Anatomical Defects

Inherited defects present at birth. Some people are born with an extra rib located above the first rib (cervical rib) which has the ability to reduce the size of the thoracic outlet and cause a compression of the nerves or blood vessels.

Poor Posture

Poor posture causes undue pressure on the joints. Drooping shoulders, or sitting at a computer with your head extended forward for a long period of time can cause compression in the thoracic outlet.

Injury

Car accidents are known to cause a compression of the thoracic outlet due to the impact coupled with a seatbelt running very closely over this area.

Pregnancy

In the final stages of pregnancy, the body releases hormones to loosen the joints in the body which may lead to the first signs of thoracic outlet syndrome.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome treatment in Chiropractic-Works and Wellness Clinic

Dealing with thoracic outlet syndrome can be both painful and frustrating, and our commitment is to offer a solution-focused clinical approach to address the root of your condition and achieve tangible improvements.

Our approach goes beyond merely alleviating current symptoms—we delve deeper into identifying all potential risk factors contributing to thoracic outlet syndrome. This includes assessing factors such as stiff mid thoracic vertebrae, poor coordination of shoulder blade muscles, collarbone joint dysfunction, and shoulder rotator cuff muscle imbalances, among others. We recognize the significance of prevention, and our goal is to resolve all possible risk factors to prevent the recurrence of thoracic outlet syndrome.

Our Services:

We specialize in non-invasive and nonsurgical chiropractic treatments designed to relieve the pain and symptoms associated with thoracic outlet syndrome. Our initial treatment options involve personalized physical therapy sessions aimed at strengthening and stretching the shoulder muscles to enhance range of motion and improve posture.

By focusing on muscle strengthening, we provide crucial support for the collarbone and surrounding muscles. Our chiropractic techniques are tailored to alleviate pressure on compressed nerves and blood vessels, addressing the core issues contributing to thoracic outlet syndrome.

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