If you’ve ever experienced long-term tingling or discoloration in your hands and arms, you’ve had a taste of what thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is like. Many assume the problem is with their hand, wrist, or shoulder when this happens, but this isn’t always the case.
Below, we will examine what TOS is, what causes the condition to occur, and how chiropractic care can help provide you with relief. Keep reading to learn more, and contact Harlan Chiropractic & Acupuncture today to schedule an appointment if you have been diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome.
What Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a term used to describe the thoracic outlet located beneath your collarbone, between your neck and shoulder, causing compression of the brachial plexus, a group of nerves located in the front of the neck, shoulders, and chest. The condition occurs when blood vessels or nerves between your collarbone and top rib become squeezed, causing pain, numbness, or tingling sensations in your arms or hands.
Depending on whether nerves or blood vessels are being compressed in the thoracic outlet, the symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome can vary. The following are some of the most common causes of thoracic outlet syndrome.
- A traumatic injury sustained as a result of a car accident
- Overuse injuries, commonly related to athletics
- A pregnancy-related complication
- Congenital issues
Thoracic outlet syndrome is particularly common in adults between the ages of 20 to 40 who engage in physical activities that require repetitive overhead arm use or heavy lifting. Symptoms of TOS include mild to severe pain in the hand, arm, shoulder, or neck, as well as muscle weakness in the arm or hand, mild to severe neck pain, cold hands or fingers, and a bluish or pale discoloration to the skin of the hands and fingers.
How Chiropractic Can Help Treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Because many of the symptoms of TOS are caused by the compression of nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet, visiting a qualified chiropractor to make adjustments can relieve the pressure on the blood vessels and nerves.
Your chiropractor will evaluate your vertebrae, collarbone, and ribs to see if compression is present and, if so, what misalignment is causing it to occur. Then, the normal alignment of your spine and associated tissues can be realigned with spinal manipulation and postural correction. Your chiropractor may also be able to provide you with additional help in maintaining good posture and minimizing further compression, preventing TOS from returning in the future.
Visit Harlan Chiropractic & Acupuncture for TOC Treatment
If you have been diagnosed with thoracic outlet syndrome, chiropractic care may be able to provide you with relief. At Harlan Chiropractic & Acupuncture, we’re committed to providing our patients personalized chiropractic care to help them improve their overall health and well-being.
Dr. Chris Harlan will create a customized treatment plan that matches your specific needs and provides you with relief from thoracic outlet syndrome. Schedule an appointment with us today and start receiving the treatment you need!