Do you suffer from numbness and tingling in your hand, arm or shoulder area? It is possible you are suffering from a condition called Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. Symptoms are pain in the neck and shoulder, and aching, numbness, and tingling in the arm and hand. This issue can stem from a past or current trauma to the area such as a car accident, whiplash injury, or fall. It can also present during pregnancy. Repetitive motions from work or sports can also cause these symptoms.
It is important that you are examined by a doctor of chiropractic to rule out other causes of these symptoms such as carpal tunnel syndrome and a pinched nerve in the neck. Medications and rest are not effective treatments.
So what exactly is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome? It is commonly described as a compression of the nerves and blood vessels that run from the neck into the arms. This compression can occur in several different areas of the neck and/or shoulder. The most common place of compression is between the collar bone and the first rib. As chiropractors, we are trained to check and adjust the first rib and collar bone to help reduce the compression.
The best way to treat thoracic outlet syndrome is with massage and chiropractic. Both massage and chiropractic together will solve the problem much faster than each would separately. Make an appointment to get a checkup with your Longmont chiropractor, to ensure there is nothing else contributing to the issue. Your chiropractor will determine a course of treatment that will best suit your needs. Chiropractic adjustments to the spine, ribs, and collar bone will help free the compression. Massage will help to release the tight muscles and scar tissue that may be causing the compression.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms contact the Café of Life Chiropractic and Massage studio in Longmont today.