Releasing the Pressure: Natural Therapies for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a condition that arises when nerves or blood vessels in the thoracic outlet—the space between your collarbone and first rib—become compressed or pinched. This can lead to shoulder and arm pain, arm or hand numbness, tingling, and weakness in the neck, shoulder, and arm. It can really impact not only one’s mobility, but one’s overall quality of life.

While oftentimes conventional approaches to TOS (NSAIDs and pain meds) fail miserably, those struggling with TOS seek relief turn instead to chiroprac-tic and other natural approaches that have superior track records in helping resolve TOS.

How do chiropractic adjustments help with TOS?

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper spinal alignment and function, which can be highly beneficial for individuals suffering from TOS.

Here’s how chiropractic adjustments may help:

Correcting misalignments or restrictions: Misalignments and/or restrictions in the cervical and upper thoracic spine can contribute to nerve compression, worsening TOS symptoms. Chiropractors use gentle adjustments to improve alignment and relieve pressure on nerves and blood vessels.

Improving Structure (aka “Posture”): Poor posture, such as forward head carriage (i.e. Tech Neck) and rounded shoulders, can worsen TOS. Chiropractic care, combined with postural exercises, helps patients maintain proper spinal alignment and reduce strain on the thoracic outlet. Click here for a Restoring the Curve DIY Corrective Exercise Program

Enhancing Joint Mobility: Restricted movement in the cervical and thoracic spine can contribute to TOS symptoms. Chiropractic adjustments restore normal joint mobility, reducing stiffness and improving circulation.

Reducing Muscle Tension: Chiropractic care often includes soft tissue tech-niques like myofascial release and trigger point therapy to alleviate tension in the scalene and pectoralis muscles, which are common contributors to TOS.

Nerve Decompression: Adjustments can help reduce or remove physical pres-sure from the nerves, allowing for better nerve function and reducing symp-toms like tingling and numbness.

Other Natural Approaches to Relieve Thoracic Outlet Syndrome:

In addition to chiropractic care, there are several other natural therapies that can help manage and alleviate TOS symptoms.

1. Corrective Exercises and Stretching

Specific stretches and strengthening exercises can improve posture, reduce muscle tension, and relieve nerve compression. Some effective exercises include:

Scalene Stretch: Tilting the head to the side while gently pulling it downward can stretch tight scalene muscles that contribute to TOS. Do 2-3 times for 30 seconds, each side.

Pec Stretch: Stretching the chest muscles using a doorway stretch can counter-act rounded shoulders. Do 4-5 times, 30 seconds each.

Shoulder Blade Squeeze (aka Scaptions or Scapular Retractions): Strengthening the scapular muscles helps open up the thoracic outlet and improve posture. Do 4-5 sets of 10 reps.

2. Massage Therapy: Massage techniques like deep tissue massage and myo-fascial release can help reduce muscle tightness, break up scar tissue, improve blood flow, and relieve pressure on compressed nerves.

3. Postural Ergonomics: Making ergonomic changes to your workspace, such as adjusting monitor height and using proper arm support, can reduce strain on the thoracic outlet.

4. Anti-Inflammatory Diet: A diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods, such as leafy greens, omega-3 fatty acids, and turmeric, can help reduce inflammation and improve overall musculoskeletal health.  CLICK HERE FOR AN ANTI-INFLAMMATORY NUTRITIONAL PROGRAM FOR INJURY RECOVERY.

5. Heat and Ice Therapy: Applying heat to tight muscles or using ice on in-flamed areas can help relieve pain and discomfort associated with TOS. Apply 10-20 minutes each, and experiment to see if ice, heat, or both work best for you.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can be a challenging condition, but chiropractic care and other natural treatments offer effective relief without the need for surgery or medication. By addressing spinal alignment and mobility, improving posture, and incorporating holistic therapies, those suffering from TOS can experience significant improvements in pain and function. Most importantly, you can return to doing the things you love and those that bring you joy!

If you’re dealing with TOS, call us at 714 540 6792 to schedule a no-cost con-sultation (on the phone or in-person), to see if we can help!