Thoracic Outlet Syndrome – True Chiropractic Group

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Chiropractic Solutions

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a condition caused by compression of the nerves, arteries, or veins in the thoracic outlet, the space between the collarbone and the first rib. This compression can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the shoulders, arms, and hands. While conventional treatments include medication and, in severe cases, surgery, chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach that can provide significant relief and long-term recovery.

Understanding Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
TOS occurs when structures in the thoracic outlet become compressed due to:

Poor posture (e.g., forward head posture, rounded shoulders)
Repetitive overhead movements (common in athletes, factory workers, and hairstylists)
Trauma or injury (such as whiplash or fractures)
Congenital abnormalities (e.g., extra rib or tight fibrous bands)

Types of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Neurogenic TOS
Caused by compression of the brachial plexus (a network of nerves). This is the most common type.
Venous TOS
Results from compression of the subclavian vein, leading to swelling and discoloration of the arm.
Arterial TOS
Caused by compression of the subclavian artery, which is the least common but potentially the most serious.

Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Numbness or tingling in the arms or fingers.
Pain in the neck, shoulder, or arm
Weakness or difficulty gripping objects
Swelling or discoloration in the affected limb
Cold sensitivity in the fingers

Scientific Evidence Supporting Chiropractic for TOS

A 2019 study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics found that spinal adjustments significantly improve pain and function in patients with neurogenic TOS.

Research in The Journal of Orthopedic & Sports Physical Therapy suggests that postural correction and manual therapy reduce symptoms in TOS patients without the need for surgery.

A case study in the Annals of Vertebral Subluxation Research (2022) showed remarkable improvement in TOS patients after chiropractic adjustments and myofascial release techniques.

Why Chiropractic Care for
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Chiropractic adjustments can help restore proper alignment, relieve nerve compression, and improve blood flow, addressing the root cause of TOS without drugs or surgery. Here’s why chiropractic care is a top choice for TOS patients:

Poor posture, such as forward head posture or rounded shoulders, can contribute to TOS. Chiropractors use spinal adjustments and posture correction techniques to realign the spine, reducing pressure on the thoracic outlet.

Chiropractic adjustments relieve nerve compression by restoring proper movement in the spine and rib cage, reducing irritation to the brachial plexus.

TOS often limits the range of motion in the shoulders and neck. Chiropractic care includes manual therapy, stretching exercises, and soft tissue techniques to improve mobility.

Chiropractic techniques like trigger point therapy, myofascial release, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM) help relax tight muscles and relieve pressure in the thoracic outlet.

Unlike medication, which only provides temporary relief, chiropractic care targets the root cause of TOS, promoting natural healing through spinal adjustments, muscle therapy, and rehabilitation exercises.

Frequently Asked
Questions About Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

What are the common causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

TOS can be caused by poor posture, repetitive arm movements, trauma, anatomical abnormalities, or muscle tightness compressing nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet.

How is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome diagnosed?

Doctors use physical exams, X-rays, nerve conduction tests, and vascular studies to confirm TOS. Chiropractors perform specialized tests like Adson's Test and Roos Test to assess nerve and blood flow compression.

Why consider chiropractic care for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, drug-free treatment that corrects spinal misalignments, relieves nerve pressure, improves mobility, and reduces muscle tension - leading to long-term symptom relief.

How long does it take to see results from chiropractic treatment for TOS?

Many patients experience improvement within a few weeks of chiropractic care, depending on the severity of their condition and their adherence to posture correction and rehab exercises.

Can Thoracic Outlet Syndrome be prevented?

Yes! Maintaining good posture, avoiding prolonged overhead activities, strengthening postural muscles, and getting regular chiropractic adjustments can help prevent TOS from developing or recurring.

Testimonials

I have strongly recommend this place to people who are suffering form spine problems

Before I went to Ang Mo Kio TRUE Chiro I'm suffering from Neck problem and back pain. Dr. Justin was very friendly very capable of what he doing. within few sessions my neck was pain free, I feel like it helps to recover my spine. Especial thanks to the staff as well coz the exercises they have recommended me to do help me to recover faster.

Dilan Jayasinghe

At TRUE AMK, I feel safe and trust them to take good care of my spine

TRUE Chiropractic has become my weekly ritual. Everyone at the clinic is friendly, professional and super kind. Dr Justin takes time to answer questions, explain stuff I'm not clear about and is very supportive of my recovery efforts. Thanks to them, I'm recovering very well from slipped disc and sciatica without having to go from surgery, and have even been able to resume climbing.

Eileen Lee

I am happy with Dr David's service and have signed on for the programme

Had my trial session at the Marine Parade branch on 31 Oct 2023. I was attended to by Dr David Johnson. Dr David is friendly, patient and competent. He listened and understood my issues. After the adjustments. he explained to me the areas of concern.

Linda Wong

Our Locations

Ang Mo Kio (Town Centre)

Blk 727, #01-4268
Ang Mo Kio Ave 6
Singapore 560727

6452 4245

8180 8960

How to get here?

Bukit Timah (Guthrie House)

1 Fifth Avenue, #04-07
Guthrie House Singapore
Singapore 268802

6466 7020

8180 8960

How to get here?

Orchard (Paragon)

290 Orchard Road, #06-11
Paragon
Singapore 238859

6817 2147

8180 8960

How to get here?

Marine Parade (Parkway)

1 Marine Parade Central #03-04
Parkway Centre
Singapore 449408

6385 0181

8180 8960

How to get here?

Ubi (Techpark)

10 Ubi Crescent #04-49
Ubi Techpark, Lobby C
Singapore 408564

6817 2145

8180 8960

How to get here?

Tanjong Pagar (AIBI)

#01-02, Aibi MaxWell,
30 Maxwell Rd
Singapore 069114

6817 2146

8180 8960

How to get here?

True Chiropractic Raffles Place

20 Cecil Street, #05-09 PLUS
Singapore 049705

8180 8960

Sports Performance Excellence Clinic
(Guthrie House)

1 Fifth Avenue, #04-07
Guthrie House Singapore
Singapore 268802

6466 7020

8180 8960

How to get here?

SPINEHEALTH Center Of Care

1 Fifth Avenue, #04-07
Guthrie House Singapore
Singapore 268802

6466 7020

8180 8960

How to get here?