Neck or Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Neck pain can be caused by a variety of factors, making it challenging to diagnose. One such condition is thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS), which can coexist with neck pain. TOS can arise from nerve compression, blood vessel compression, or both, making it difficult to diagnose. The nerves and blood vessels can get pinched at the exiting holes in the spine (neuroforamen), by tight scalene muscles, under the collar bone (clavicle), and/or by a tight pectoralis minor muscle near the armpit. The symptoms usually include pain and numbness in the shoulder, arm, and hand (usually affecting the 4th & 5th fingers). It’s the job of your chiropractor to run different tests to figure out where the primary pinch or pinches are located so he or she can treat the right area.

The causes of TOS can be many, with one of the obvious being a fractured collar bone or clavicle. Another is from having an extra rib. An overly tight scalene muscle, scar tissue, an extra large muscle, and so on can also result in pinching of the nerves and/or blood vessels.

Purses, backpacks, carrying golf clubs, a mailbag, and the like can also cause a pinch. A seat belt injury from a car accident is yet another cause, either from the direct trauma or later when scar tissue forms in the area.

A slouchy, slumped posture where the shoulders roll forwards can cause TOS. Large breasts and obesity also add to the list of risk factors. Women are affected 3x more than men.

If you’re experiencing neck pain or other symptoms associated with TOS, we encourage you to schedule a consultation with us at Morgan Chiropractic. Our friendly and experienced team specializes in providing high-quality chiropractic care for neck pain and TOS. We’ll work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets your needs.