Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Lawrence, KS | Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) occurs when the nerves or blood vessels traveling between the neck and shoulder become compressed as they pass through the thoracic outlet. Most cases involve compression of the brachial plexus nerves (neurogenic TOS), leading to pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the shoulder, arm, and hand.

At Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic, we provide evidence-based, conservative treatment to reduce nerve irritation, improve posture and mobility, and restore normal upper extremity function without surgery whenever appropriate.

How We Treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Every treatment plan is individualized based on your symptoms, examination findings, and contributing biomechanical factors. Depending on your condition, treatment may include:

• Chiropractic spinal and extremity adjustments to improve mobility of the cervical spine, thoracic spine, ribs, shoulder, and clavicle

• Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension and improve soft tissue mobility

• Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) to address chronic muscle dysfunction and improve soft tissue healing in appropriate cases

• Dry needling to relieve trigger points within the scalenes, pectoralis minor, upper trapezius, and surrounding musculature

• Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) to improve tissue mobility and reduce fascial restrictions

• Corrective exercises to improve posture, shoulder stability, and mobility

• Personalized home exercise program to improve flexibility and reduce symptom recurrence

Our goal is to reduce compression within the thoracic outlet while restoring normal movement and improving upper extremity function.

Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Common symptoms include:

• Neck pain

• Shoulder pain

• Arm pain

• Numbness or tingling in the arm or hand

• Hand weakness

• Fatigue with overhead activities

• Pain while carrying objects

• Symptoms that worsen with prolonged overhead positioning

Some patients may also notice changes in hand temperature or color if blood vessels are involved. These symptoms require prompt medical evaluation.

What Causes Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome may develop due to:

• Poor posture

• Repetitive overhead activities

• Sports involving overhead motion

• Previous neck or shoulder injuries

• Muscle tightness

• Congenital anatomical variations, such as a cervical rib

• Repetitive occupational activities

• Trauma, including motor vehicle accidents

Identifying the underlying cause is essential for developing an effective treatment plan.

What to Expect During Your First Visit

Your initial evaluation at Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic is designed to determine whether thoracic outlet syndrome is contributing to your symptoms and identify the structures involved.

Your visit may include:

• Detailed health history and symptom review

• Orthopedic and neurological examination

• Cervical spine and shoulder assessment

• Postural evaluation

• Functional movement assessment

• Personalized treatment recommendations

If vascular involvement, advanced imaging, or referral to another healthcare provider is indicated, we will help coordinate your care.

Why Choose Midwest Muscle & Joint Clinic?

Our chiropractors evaluate the entire shoulder girdle, cervical spine, and upper extremity to identify the mechanical factors contributing to nerve compression. Your treatment may include chiropractic adjustments, manual therapy, Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), dry needling, IASTM, and corrective exercises to restore movement and reduce symptoms.

Our treatment plans are designed to:

• Reduce neck and shoulder pain

• Relieve numbness and tingling

• Improve posture

• Restore shoulder and upper extremity mobility

• Improve strength and daily function

• Help patients avoid unnecessary medications or surgery whenever possible