Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: What It Is and How We Can Help
Have you been dealing with numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hands and arms? Do your shoulders or neck feel tight and painful—especially after working long hours at a desk or sleeping awkwardly? These symptoms could be signs of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)—a condition we specialize in treating at Avalon Wellness & Performance in Naples, Florida.
What Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome refers to compression of the nerves and/or blood vessels as they pass between your collarbone and first rib (the “thoracic outlet”). This can lead to pain, weakness, and circulatory changes in the upper body.
There are three types of TOS:
Neurogenic TOS (most common): Affects the brachial plexus nerves
Venous TOS: Affects the subclavian vein
Arterial TOS: Affects the subclavian artery
Common Symptoms of TOS
Numbness or tingling in the arm, hand, or fingers
Shoulder and neck pain or stiffness
Fatigue or weakness in the upper limbs
Cold or discolored hands
Swelling in the arm or hand (in vascular types)
What Causes TOS?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome can be caused or aggravated by:
Poor posture (especially forward head and rounded shoulders)
Repetitive overhead motion (painting, lifting, swimming)
Whiplash or neck trauma
Tight scalene or pectoralis minor muscles
Cervical rib or other anatomical variations
Fascial restrictions in the chest, neck, or diaphragm
📚 Clinical Insight:
Research supports manual therapy for TOS symptom reduction. One randomized controlled trial showed significant improvement in neurogenic TOS symptoms with scalene muscle stretching and posture correction.
— Hooper TL et al., J Man Manip Ther. 2010
How We Treat TOS at Avalon (All Within OMT Sessions)
At Avalon Wellness & Performance, our approach to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is comprehensive, hands-on, and fully integrated within your Osteopathic Manual Therapy (OMT) sessions.
We don’t compartmentalize care—each session is tailored to what your body needs that day, blending structural, fascial, and neurologic techniques in a way that addresses the root cause of your symptoms.
In your OMT sessions, we may incorporate:
✅ Joint Mobilization & Positional Release
To restore alignment and mobility in the clavicle, first rib, sternum, and cervical spine—relieving compression at the thoracic outlet.
✅ Myofascial and Soft Tissue Techniques
To release chronic tension in key areas like the scalenes, pectoralis minor, and subclavius that often contribute to nerve and vascular entrapment.
✅ Cranial and Fascial Work
To improve fluid dynamics, nervous system regulation, and fascial glide from the neck and thoracic inlet all the way to the diaphragm.
✅ Postural Cues & Breathwork
We guide you in-session on how to optimize rib cage expansion, diaphragm engagement, and head/shoulder alignment—so you leave with tools to support your recovery daily.
🎥 Recommended Exercises for TOS Relief
Here are some of our favorite exercises we often prescribe to clients:
Wall Angels (Thoracic Spine & Scapular Control)
Tip: Want a guided version? Ask your therapist at Avalon to customize a home movement plan based on your posture and daily activities.
Think You Might Have TOS? Let’s Find Out.
Because TOS mimics other conditions like:
Cervical disc herniation
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Rotator cuff strain
…accurate hands-on evaluation is key.
Book your Initial Osteopathic Manual Therapy Session or Neuromuscular Massage with ART at Avalon Wellness & Performance and let us help you move and live without nerve pain.
📍 Serving Naples, Bonita Springs & Surrounding Areas
📞 239-427-4697
📍 10661 Airport Rd. N. #10, Naples, FL
🔗 www.avalonwellnessandperformance.com
