Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a condition where the brachial plexus nerve bundles and the blood vessels, located in the passage between the anterior and middle scalene down to the brachial plexus pass, are compressed in this area by inflammation on the neck and shoulder muscles, causing an impingement of the nerves.

Many times it is difficult to properly diagnose thoracic outlet syndrome due to the fact that the symptoms relating to the condition are closely related to other conditions. The unfortunate  impingement of the nerves in a person experiencing thoracic outlet syndrome can cause numerous symptoms from numbness and tingling sensations on the hands and feet, to weakness and pain when moving the neck, shoulders, and/or upper extremities. Discoloration in the area as a result of diminished circulation is also possible.

Thoracic outlet syndrome and its symptoms can be caused as a result of an athletic injury or an automobile accident injury. Swelling, inflammation, and tightness on the neck and shoulder muscles from overworking the area causes pressure and stress against the brachial plexus nerve bundles. Experiencing a whiplash injury from an automobile accident closely associated to the impingement of the nerve bundles and can also lead to thoracic outlet syndrome.

 

Chiropractic care and physical therapy focuses on restoring the body’s natural alignment and its functions and a chiropractic adjustment can reduce tight muscles and relieve the compressed brachial plexus nerve bundles associated with thoracic outlet syndrome.