Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
The most common cause of thoracic outlet syndrome is pressure on the nerves or blood vessels that go to the arms. Sometimes this pressure is caused by an extra first rib or an old fracture of the clavicle, which makes the space of the thoracic outlet narrower. Blood vessels and nerves coming from the spine or major blood vessels of the body pass through a narrow space near the shoulder and collarbone on their way to the arms. As they pass by or through the collarbone (clavicle) and upper ribs, they may not have enough space.
Pressure (compression) on these blood vessels or nerves can cause symptoms in the arms or hands. Problems with the nerves cause almost all cases of thoracic outlet syndrome.
Weak shoulder muscles can cause the collarbone to slip down and forward, putting pressure on the nerves and blood vessels that lie under it. Poor posture or obesity can also contribute to thoracic outlet syndrome. Pressure may also be caused by repeatedly doing activities that involve raising or holding the arms overhead. Accidents or injuries can cause the syndrome as well. In some cases, it may not be possible to identify what has caused the syndrome.
Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Pain, numbness, and tingling in the pinky and ring fingers, and the inner forearm
- Pain and tingling in the neck and shoulders (carrying something heavy may make the pain worse)
- Signs of poor circulation in the hand or forearm (a bluish color, cold hands, or a swollen arm)
- Weakness of the muscles in the hand; weakening grip
Treatment for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome in Augusta GA
In the vast majority of neurological Thoracic Outlet Syndrome cases, a conservative, non-surgical approach to treatment is most effective, especially when the condition is diagnosed early. As experienced chiropractors in Augusta GA, Georgia Clinic of Chiropractic has great success in treating thoracic outlet syndrome. The video below highlights a patient story on thoracic outlet syndrome. Due to an old fracture of the clavicle from various sports injuries, Chelsea suffered from thoracic outlet syndrome. After a bad experience with a previous chiropractor, Chelsea’s boyfriend encouraged her to come to Georgia Clinic of Chiropractic instead. With our care targeted specifically for her condition, Chelsea is now doing great, and has resumed activities she previously was unable to do, such as lifting with her right arm.
If you would like to find out how a chiropractor in Augusta GA specializing in customized treatments may be beneficial for you, you can schedule a complimentary consultation. Our complimentary consultations are an integral part of our patient experience here, and you can also watch videos of our patients describing their own chiropractic experience.
The Georgia Clinic of Chiropractic Blog is written by Dr. Mark Huntsman.
Augusta GA Chiropractors Georgia Clinic of Chiropractic provides customized chiropractic care to the Augusta, Martinez, and Evans GA communities. Visit our main website at www.georgia-clinic.com for customized chiropractic in Augusta GA.
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