If you’re dealing with numbness, tingling, or pain in your arms and hands—especially when it doesn’t have an obvious cause—it can be both frustrating and a little worrying. These symptoms might be linked to something called Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS), a condition that can also cause weakness in the arm or hand.
Finding relief isn’t always easy. Many people with TOS end up seeing multiple specialists, trying different medications, or even considering surgery—often with limited results. But there’s good news: chiropractic care offers a gentle, non-invasive option that focuses on the structural imbalances that may be contributing to your symptoms.
What Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome refers to a group of disorders that occur when the blood vessels or nerves in the space between your collarbone and first rib (the thoracic outlet) become compressed. This compression can cause pain in your shoulders and neck and numbness in your fingers.
The thoracic outlet is a relatively small space through which several important structures must pass on their way from the neck to the arm, including:
- The brachial plexus (a network of nerves that control the shoulder, arm, and hand)
- The subclavian artery (which supplies blood to the arm)
- The subclavian vein (which returns blood from the arm to the heart)
When any of these structures becomes compressed, various symptoms can develop depending on which structure is affected. There are three main types of TOS:
1. Neurogenic TOS
This most common form affects the brachial plexus nerves. Symptoms typically include:
- Numbness or tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers
- Weakness in the hand
- Pain in the shoulder and neck
- Arm fatigue with overhead activities
2. Vascular TOS
This less common type involves compression of the blood vessels. When arteries are affected (arterial TOS), symptoms may include:
- Coldness in the hands and fingers
- Pale or bluish discoloration of the hand
- Pain and cramping in the arm, especially with activity
- Weak or absent pulse in the affected arm
When veins are compressed (venous TOS), symptoms can include:
- Swelling of the arm
- Discoloration (bluish color)
- Heaviness of the arm
- Visible distention of veins in the affected arm
3. Nonspecific TOS
This controversial diagnosis includes patients with chronic pain in the thoracic outlet area without clear nerve or vascular involvement. Symptoms can mimic those of neurogenic TOS but without objective findings on examination or diagnostic tests.
How Chiropractic Care Addresses Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Chiropractic treatment for TOS focuses on addressing the structural issues that contribute to compression in the thoracic outlet region. This comprehensive approach targets multiple aspects of the condition rather than simply managing symptoms.
Restoring Proper Alignment
Misalignments in the spine, particularly in the cervical (neck) and upper thoracic (upper back) regions, can contribute significantly to TOS by altering the position of the ribs and clavicle (collarbone). Chiropractors use specific adjustment techniques to restore proper alignment in these areas, which may help:
- Expand the space in the thoracic outlet
- Reduce pressure on nerves and blood vessels
- Improve communication between the brain and affected tissues
- Decrease inflammatory responses in the area
Posture Correction and Ergonomic Guidance
For many people with TOS, poor posture is either a contributing factor or exacerbates an existing condition. The forward head position and rounded shoulders are common in our device-focused world and directly impact the thoracic outlet space.
Chiropractic care includes practical guidance on:
- Proper ergonomic setups for work environments
- Posture awareness throughout daily activities
- Positioning during sleep to avoid aggravating the condition
- Modifications to daily habits that may be contributing to symptoms
These practical strategies help maintain the benefits of in-office treatment and prevent recurrence or worsening of symptoms.
With the At Last Chiropractic team, you can feel better. Your Lithia chiropractor is ready to help. Book your appointment with us today!
