Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treatment in Sturgis
If you’ve ever experienced tingling, numbness, or a pins-and-needles sensation in your hands and arms, you may have felt a glimpse of what thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is like. TOS occurs when blood vessels or nerves become compressed between the collarbone and the top rib, causing pain, numbness, and weakness in the arms and hands. It most commonly affects adults between 20 and 40 years old who perform repetitive overhead movements or heavy lifting. At Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture, Dr. Jerrid Goebel can help diagnose TOS and address it at the root cause — not just mask the symptoms.
Causes and Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
TOS typically involves compression of one of two structures. The most common is the brachial plexus — a network of nerves running through the front of the neck, shoulders, and chest — which can be compressed by the collarbone, surrounding muscles, or an extra cervical rib that some people are born with. Less commonly, TOS involves compression of the blood vessels in the upper back and neck. Research shows that nerve compression is responsible for symptoms in approximately 90% of TOS cases.
How Chiropractic Care Treats TOS
Once diagnosed, Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture treats TOS through a personalized series of chiropractic interventions designed to relieve compression, restore balance, and reduce pain. Treatment may include:
- Thoracic spinal adjustments: Targeted upper back adjustments to restore joint alignment and reduce nerve pressure
- Trigger point therapy: Applying precise pressure to tender points in the affected muscles to release tension and reduce pain
- Myofascial release: Hands-on techniques targeting the scalenes and surrounding soft tissue to improve mobility and circulation
- Stretching and rehabilitation: Guided exercises to strengthen and support the shoulders, neck, and upper back
- Lifestyle modifications: Guidance on avoiding heavy bags, overhead strain, and other activities that aggravate TOS
Diagnosing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
TOS is more common than most people realize, and it is frequently misdiagnosed because its symptoms overlap with other conditions, including carpal tunnel syndrome. The variety of symptoms — stemming from both nerve and vascular involvement — makes accurate diagnosis essential. Dr. Goebel will conduct a thorough evaluation to identify the true source of your discomfort and rule out other contributing conditions before developing your care plan.
Why Choose Chiropractic Care for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free path to relief for TOS sufferers. By restoring balance to the spine, shoulders, and deep neck muscles, Dr. Goebel can help remove pressure from the brachial plexus and address the underlying cause of compression. Many patients experience meaningful symptom relief without the need for surgery or medication.
Schedule Your Appointment
If you’re experiencing arm pain, tingling, or weakness that may be related to thoracic outlet syndrome, contact Key City Chiropractic & Acupuncture in Sturgis today to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Goebel.
