Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic outlet syndrome causes arm pain, numbness, and weakness from nerve and blood vessel compression in the neck and chest. Chiropractic care at Pura Vida addresses the structural causes of this compression.

What Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) involves compression of the nerves (brachial plexus), arteries, or veins as they pass through the thoracic outlet — the space between the collarbone and the first rib. Neurogenic TOS (the most common type) compresses the brachial plexus, causing arm pain, numbness, and weakness. Compression can occur at three anatomical sites: the scalene triangle (between anterior and middle scalene muscles), the costoclavicular space (between the clavicle and first rib), and the subcoracoid space (beneath the pectoralis minor). Poor posture, forward head position, and first rib subluxation are primary contributors. Chiropractic correction of these structural factors is central to TOS management.

Common Symptoms

Pain, numbness, or tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers
Weakness in the hand or difficulty with fine motor tasks
Arm fatigue with overhead activities
Neck and shoulder pain on the affected side
Hands that turn cold or white with activity (vascular TOS)
Symptoms worsening with arms raised or carrying objects

Common Causes & Contributing Factors

First rib subluxation narrowing the costoclavicular space
Scalene muscle hypertrophy or spasm from cervical subluxation
Forward head posture and rounded shoulder positioning
Cervical rib (accessory bone) narrowing the thoracic outlet
Prior clavicle fracture or AC joint injury
Repetitive overhead work or throwing

The Pura Vida Protocol: Chiropractic Care for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Dr. Foss addresses TOS through first rib adjustments — correcting the elevated or anteriorly displaced first rib that narrows the costoclavicular space. Upper cervical and thoracic corrections reduce the tension in the scalene muscles that compress the brachial plexus at the scalene triangle. Soft-tissue release targeting the pectoralis minor and scalene muscles further decompresses the neurovascular structures. Forward head posture and rounded shoulder corrections eliminate the postural component. Most TOS patients experience significant symptom reduction within a structured course of chiropractic care.

At Pura Vida Chiropractic, Dr. Foss uses Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT) — a gentle, category-based system that addresses the spine, pelvis, and craniosacral rhythm as one integrated unit. SOT restores proper biomechanics, reduces nerve interference, and creates the neurological environment your body needs to heal itself.

Advanced Therapies We Combine With Chiropractic

For many patients, combining spinal correction with regenerative therapies produces faster and more lasting results. Depending on your condition, Dr. Foss may incorporate one or more of the following:

SoftWave Therapy

Patented unfocused shock waves spread over a broad treatment area to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and activate stem cells — promoting cellular regeneration and long-term pain relief.

Class IV Laser Therapy

Photobiomodulation with a 10–15W Class IV laser delivers therapeutic light energy deep into tissue, reducing inflammation, blocking pain signals, and speeding healing at the cellular level.

Why Choose Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio?

Pura Vida Chiropractic is a family-friendly, bilingual (English/Spanish) clinic serving San Antonio, TX. Dr. Dan Foss is trained in Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT), a comprehensive chiropractic system that addresses the whole body — not just the area of pain. We combine hands-on spinal correction with the latest regenerative technology to help patients resolve the root cause of their condition rather than masking symptoms.

We are insurance friendly with most insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, Aetna, Ambetter, Oscar Health, Community First, and Molina Healthcare. New patient appointments are available promptly.

Ready to Get Relief from Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Schedule your new patient appointment with Dr. Foss at Pura Vida Chiropractic in San Antonio, TX. We'll identify the root cause and build a personalized care plan.

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