How can chiropractors help treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

The thoracic outlet is located between your collarbone - the clavicle, and your first rib. When the nerves in front of your neck, shoulders, and chest are compressed, it causes a condition called Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Patients may experience pain, numbness or tingling in their arms or hands. In such a situation, visit your chiropractor at a Dickson chiropractic center. Let’s discuss further how your chiropractor can help treat patients with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

Symptoms and causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

The thoracic outlet section of the spine is a critical part of your body. A brachial plexus is a group of nerve and blood vessels in the front of your neck, shoulders and chest. Various factors can compress these nerves and blood vessels, leading to this condition. Along with upper thoracic vertebrae and ribs, the cervical spine is also affected by this health condition.

The symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome vary based on the location of compressed nerves and blood vessels. Patients will likely experience the following symptoms-

·         Mild to severe pain in hands, arms, shoulders, and neck

·         Swelling of hands and arms

·         Muscle weaknesses in arms or hands

·         Difficulty grasping objects

·         Cold hands or fingers

·         Bluish or pale discoloration on your hand or finger skin

If you experience these symptoms, visit your chiropractor at a chiropractic care clinic in Tennessee for appropriate treatment. Your chiropractor will medically examine you and, if needed, prescribe health tests. Based on the causes and severity of your condition, they will offer you the appropriate treatment accordingly.

Various factors are responsible for causing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Usually, this condition is common among adults participating in physical activities that involve repeated heavy lifting or overhead arm use. 

The following are some of the common causes responsible for this condition.

·         Traumatic injury resulting from a car accident

·         Fractured or subluxated collarbones

·         Overuse injuries, most common in athletes

·         The repetitive motion of arms and upper thoracic spine while at work

·         Congenital issues

·         Pregnancy-related issues

You may confuse your symptoms with disc herniations, elbow-related disorders, shoulder bursitis, etc. Hence it is critical to visit your chiropractors for proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Chiropractic care for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Now that you know about the symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, if you experience them, visit your chiropractor at a chiropractic care center in Tennessee.

Your chiropractor will perform physical exams and even prescribe imaging and other forms of tests to assess your condition. They will check the mobility and function of your collarbones, upper thoracic spine, cervical vertebrae, and upper ribs. For instance, if they diagnose a possible misalignment responsible for compressing brachial plexus nerves and blood vessels, they will focus on restoring your natural spinal alignment. In this regard, they can use various adjustment techniques to align your body in its natural position. It can help relieve pain and discomfort and improve joint movements.

If needed, your chiropractor may suggest additional supportive care in the form of diet and exercise. Diet can help reduce inflammation while stretching exercises can help your overall recovery. Moreover, they may also suggest additional tips to maintain proper posture in your workplace. Following your chiropractor's guidance can help speed up your recovery.