Have you ever woken up with a "dead arm"—when your arm feels numb, weak, and unresponsive? This sensation could be a sign of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS). This is a condition we regularly treat at Cable Beach Chiropractic, and is in fact something I get regularly myself!
Read on to find out what it is and how to help it - these are the things I do myself when it strikes.
What is TOS?
TOS is typically caused by pressure on the nerves at the base of your neck. These nerves, part of the brachial plexus, pass through narrow spaces between your vertebrae and travel down your arm, providing the "electricity" needed for movement.
When these nerves are compressed, it can lead to symptoms like numbness, tingling, pins and needles, or even a "dead arm."
While most TOS cases don’t cause long-term damage, they can be uncomfortable and frustrating. Fortunately, TOS is treatable!
Who is at Risk?
Anyone can develop TOS, but it's more common in people who hold their arms up for extended periods, such as chefs, or those engaged in sports requiring repetitive movements. Pregnant women and individuals with structural changes like an extra rib are also at higher risk.
This 'extra rib' is what I have, elongated transverse processes of my C7 vertebrae at the base of my neck. This was found when we x-rayed my cervical spine to see if there was any other reason why my arms kept going tingly or numb at night. It's nothing to worry about, but I'm glad I know about it so I can make sure I take care of myself with regular adjustments, strength work and stretching to maintain space for my nerves and the health of my spine!
How is TOS Treated?
Our approach to treating TOS involves a thorough examination of your spine, muscles, and nerve function to identify the source of the problem. Treatment may include:
Chiropractic Adjustments: this is the most important part of what we do - making sure your spinal joints are moving freely to ensure adequate space for those nerves to pass through!
Soft Tissue Techniques: Massage and trigger point therapy to release tight muscles.
Joint Mobilizations: Loosening tight joints to improve movement, e.g. you shoulders
Advice on Strengthening and Stretching: I make sure to keep my shoulders and upper back strong, and regularly stretch my neck and shoulder muscles to prevent or treat the symptoms of TOS, and when caring for you I share this with you.
At Cable Beach Chiro we create a personalized treatment plan based on your individual needs. Some cases resolve quickly, while others may take more time, depending on factors like your health history, occupation, and lifestyle.
What Can You Do to Help Yourself?
In addition to chiropractic care, certain stretches and lifestyle adjustments can significantly improve TOS symptoms. Here are a few stretches that can help:
Neck Mobility: In a seated position, move your neck slowly through its full range of motion (left, right, up, down, and side-to-side), holding each position for 10-20 seconds.
Trapezius Stretch: While seated, look 45 degrees towards one shoulder, then tilt your head down as if looking into a pocket. This stretches the opposite trapezius muscle.
Pectoral Stretch: Stand with one hand at shoulder level on a wall. Step forward until you feel a stretch in the front of your chest. Hold for 30 seconds, then switch sides.
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