TOS: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is the compression of blood vessels or nerve fibers in the brachial plexus. In regular English? Blood vessels can get compressed at different places between the neck and the shoulder region, causing nerve pain down the arm or tingling in the hands.

In the office, I see this condition commonly associated with avid weightlifters and runners. Poor posture and repetitive movements can contribute to TOS.

I treat this condition with Active Release Technique through the scalene muscles (sides of the neck), the cervical muscles (back of the neck) and the axilla (think pec muscles, armpit, biceps). Treatment also includes manual work on the back side, as well as adjustments and opening up the tighter muscles like the trapezius (TRAPS) and the levator scapula muscle.

It’s important to also be mindful of your posture in everyday life as well as your breathing. Before playing sports or weightlifting, be sure to include a warmup and cooldown to prevent tightness in the areas mentioned above!

Having tightness in the front of the neck or tingling down the arms? Come in and get it checked out! wellco.janeapp.com or link in bio! #sarasotachiropractor