Headaches & Nerve Pain
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Arm symptoms associated with the space between the collarbone, first rib and neck muscles.
Also called: TOS.
The nerves and blood vessels supplying the arm pass through a narrow region at the base of the neck, between the collarbone, first rib, and surrounding muscles. Symptoms may include aching, heaviness, numbness, or tingling, often worse with the arm raised overhead.
The pattern can involve mainly nerve symptoms, mainly circulation symptoms, or a mix of both, and which one predominates changes how the situation should be evaluated.
Why this matters
It is frequently mistaken for a shoulder or hand problem because that is where the symptoms are felt, so a careful examination of the whole path from the neck to the hand matters.
Posture, especially prolonged overhead work or carrying heavy bags on one shoulder, is a common contributing factor worth identifying.
The brain & nervous-system connection
Where the nervous system fits in
Posture, first-rib position, and neck muscle function are assessed together with nerve testing, since tightness or restriction in this region can narrow the space these structures pass through.
Sensory and pulse changes with specific arm positions are checked, giving information about whether nerve or vessel structures are being compressed as the arm moves.
What we look at
We look for patterns, not a single test
- Detailed health history and consultation
- NeuroInfiniti Stress Response Evaluation
- Posture and movement
- Balance and coordination testing
- Eye movement or neurological screening when appropriate
- Grip or motor-function testing when appropriate
- Palpation and spinal function
- Other examination procedures based on the individual
Not every person receives every test. What we perform depends on your history, your age and what the examination shows as we go.
Scope of care
What this does — and doesn't — mean
What we do
- • We evaluate chiropractic and musculoskeletal function.
- • We look at nervous-system-related functional findings that fall within our scope.
- • We assess movement, balance and coordination findings.
- • We measure stress-response patterns with the NeuroInfiniti evaluation.
- • We make individualized chiropractic care recommendations and re-measure over time.
What we don't claim
- • We do not diagnose, treat or cure diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a treatment for dementia, Alzheimer's disease or other neurological diseases.
- • Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical care, testing or medication.
- • No outcome is promised. Results vary from person to person.
This is a concern where medical evaluation, imaging or co-management may be the right first step. Dr. Mike Geran will say so plainly if that is what the history and examination suggest.
Common questions
- Will I be adjusted on the first visit?
- Generally no. The first visit is an evaluation visit. Dr. Geran reviews the findings and makes recommendations at the follow-up visit.
- Do I need imaging before I come in?
- Not usually. If your history or examination suggests imaging is needed, we will say so and help arrange the right next step.
When medical evaluation may be needed
Colour change, swelling or coldness in the arm may indicate vascular involvement and requires prompt medical assessment.
Related at Foothills Chiropractic
- Headaches — Headaches have many drivers. Understanding which ones apply to you is the point of the evaluation.
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome — Hand numbness and tingling associated with the median nerve at the wrist.
- Cervical Radiculopathy — Arm symptoms that follow a nerve root pattern from the neck.
- Cervicogenic Headache — Headache arising from structures in the neck.
Think Foothills Chiropractic might be right for you?
Start Here walks you through what the process looks like, so you can decide whether taking the next step makes sense for you.