Chiropractic Relief for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

If you are experiencing pain in the shoulder, upper chest, or lower neck area and aren’t sure of the cause, you may be experiencing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.  Especially prevalent in females between 20 and 40 years of age, this somewhat rare syndrome is often overlooked or misdiagnosed when patients present with numbness or tingling in the hands and fingers.  Too often it is dismissed as tendonitis or overuse of the upper extremities.

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

As a group of disorders, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome occurs when the nerves and/or blood vessels that run between the collarbone (clavicle) are pressed on the first rib.  This compression of the nerves causes pain in the shoulders and neck and can cause numbness down the arms to the hands and fingers.

Depending on the structure being compressed, the syndrome manifests in different ways:

• Neurogenic or neurological—caused by compression of the brachial plexus, a bundle of nerves that originate in the spinal cord and are responsible for muscle control and movement in the shoulder, arm, hand and fingers.
• Vascular—caused by depressed veins or arteries under the clavicle/collarbone.
• Nonspecific—defined by chronic pain but a cause can’t be determined.

What Are the Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Most often, the causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome are either anatomical or acute.  If someone is born with an anatomical abnormality, such as an extra rib, this syndrome is sometimes the result.  Conversely, if someone experiences acute injuries suffered from a car or motorcycle accident, or sustains some job- or sports-related injuries, this can also lead to the syndrome.  

Lastly, obesity, poor posture, or pregnancy can create a situation where the nerves or blood vessels become compressed.  Often losing weight or giving birth will correct the pinched nerves or vessels completely alleviating the Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

How Do the Symptoms Present?

In Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, the symptoms manifest based on type of compression whether that be nerve related or blood flow related and can be defined as follows:

• Neurogenic

  • Numbness or tingling in the upper extremities
  • Either sharp pain or aches in the neck and shoulder and sometimes the hand
  • Gilliatt-Sumner Hand – a muscle wasting evident in the fleshy part at the base of the thumb
  • Weakened gripping or holding ability

• Vascular

  • Blood clots in upper extremities
  • Throbbing or pain near the clavicle
  • Numbness or tingling in the fingers
  • Weak pulse
  • Cold or blue fingers and hands
  • Weakness in arm or neck 

Can Chiropractic Care Benefit Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?

Through a well-considered chiropractic care plan that includes manipulation and massage therapy, as well as syndrome-specific exercises specifically developed to alleviate the compression causing discomfort, patients can expect to make full recoveries in most cases.  In addition, treatment options may include manual trigger-point therapy, stretching, and postural instruction.  And with 90% of syndrome cases being neurologic in origin, chiropractic care is uniquely poised to provide solutions.

When evaluating Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, it’s imperative to have an experienced provider like the professionals at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness.  They have an understanding of the unique aspects of this syndrome, but also use a holistic approach when evaluating and developing a treatment plan for their patients.  This includes delving into all components of the patient’s lifestyle from exercise to nutrition. 

Our dedicated team at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness are available to answer your questions and evaluate your healthcare needs.  Call us — Our goal is your good health!

Your Complete Guide to Elbow Pain

Elbow pain, often known as ‘Tennis Elbow,’ is one of the most common nagging injuries that people face. Unfortunately, it doesn’t always go away on its own and can make it difficult to participate in your normal activities. 

Fortunately, though, there’s information you can learn that can help you manage and treat this condition.

Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.

So, What Is Tennis Elbow?

Also known as ‘lateral epicondylitis,’ this condition arises after continuous or strenuous use of the tendons in your elbow. This typically occurs after long-term repetitive motions of the arm or wrist.

Although it has the term ‘tennis’ in its name, this condition isn’t limited to this sport. In fact, it’s common for plumbers, carpenters, etc. to experience the same issues.

Over time, the pain that’s localized to the elbow can eventually spread to the arm or wrist. 

What Are The Symptoms?

The most common symptom of tennis elbow’s general elbow pain. But, you may find that this pain is exacerbated when performing actions like stirring a pot, turning a doorknob, etc. 

Even something as simple as drinking from a cup of coffee may be enough to cause discomfort.

How Can I Treat It?

Fortunately, this condition has a handful of treatment options for you to choose from. The one that’s best for you will likely depend on how severe your tennis elbow is.

Let’s explore a few of the most notable.

Exercises

For minor cases, all you may need to do is perform a few rehabilitation exercises for a short period of time. These involve:

• Clenching your fist while squeezing a soft object (such as a shirt or towel)
• Holding very light weight (approximately 2 lbs.) while slowly extending and flexing your wrist
• Twisting a towel in opposite directions at once (each hand should twist opposite from the other)

These movements will serve to target the area that’s inflamed, strengthening it over time and possibly eliminating the issue altogether.

KT Tape

This type of tape is applied directly to the elbow. It can serve to relieve pressure and increase circulation, notably reducing your recovery time.

This is best applied by a professional, though, and the average person likely won’t get the most use out of it as they could if they did it on their own.

Chiropractic Help

Although many people tend to think of chiropractors as professionals who help manage back pain, they also have plenty of experience in relieving joint pain, as well.

Someone who’s experiencing long-term tennis elbow will often find relief through a visit to a chiropractic office. So, keep this option in mind if basic treatment methods haven’t worked for you.

Managing Elbow Pain From Tennis Elbow Can Seem Difficult

But it doesn’t have to be.

With the above information about this type of elbow pain in mind, you’ll be well on your way toward getting the treatment you need.

Want to learn more about how we can help? Feel free to get in touch with us today to see what we can do.

What Is Shoulder Bursitis (And How Do You Treat It?)

According to the CDC, one out of every five Americans suffers from chronic pain. And 8% of chronic pain sufferers admit that it impacts their daily life. 

If you’re suffering from pain that makes it hard to work or enjoy life, it’s time to do something about it. Instead of suffering in silence, reach out for help.

If you suffer from chronic shoulder pain, you may be experiencing shoulder bursitis. Keep reading to learn more about this condition and how to treat it. 

What Is Shoulder Bursitis

Shoulder bursitis, or bursitis of the shoulder, is the painful inflammation of your shoulder joint. 

To get more technical, the condition is caused when the shoulder bursa is irritated. The bursae are liquid-filled sacs found near the joints in your body. When the bursa sac is irritated, it becomes inflamed and increases in size — meaning there is less room for the tendons and muscles in your shoulder to move around. 

What Are the Symptoms of Shoulder Bursitis

How do you know if you’re suffering from a bursitis shoulder and not another condition? There are a few specific symptoms you should look out for, including:

• Reduced range of motion in your shoulder
• Pain around the tip or outside of your shoulder
• Pain when your shoulder is touched
• Pain when you lift your arm 
• Swelling and redness around your shoulder

If these symptoms are combined with a fever, you should seek medical attention immediately as you may be dealing with an infection. 

Common Causes of Shoulder Bursitis

Now that you know what shoulder bursitis is and what the symptoms are, you may be wondering what caused it. 

The most common cause of shoulder bursitis is simply the overuse of your shoulder. Any repetitive motion can irritate the shoulder bursa, causing inflammation and pain. Many times, shoulder bursitis is caused by playing sports that involve your shoulder muscles, such as tennis, baseball, or even weight training. 

Shoulder bursitis can also be caused by a traumatic event, such as a car crash or a fall. If your shoulder area is injured during the event, bursitis may occur. 

KT Tape for Shoulder Bursitis

The good news is that shoulder bursitis is treatable with the help of a good chiropractor. 

One of the most effective treatments involves Kinesiology Taping (KT tape). This treatment involves a thin, stretchy athletic tape placed on the injured area to provide support. A trained chiropractor can apply the tape in a way that relieves both the pain and inflammation. The chiropractor can also align the shoulder joint making sure to decrease inflammation to the area and letting it properly heal. 

The great thing about KT tape is that it provides relief for the entire time that it is on your body. Once applied, the tape can generally  work for five days. 

Receive Chiropractic Care for Your Shoulder Bursitis Today! 

If you’re tired of suffering from shoulder bursitis, it’s time to receive chiropractic care. 

Our team at Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness are here to help you recover. With years of experience, our team is dedicated to providing you the best care possible. 

Click here to book an appointment at our office in North Creek near the Mill Creek Town Center. 

 

Lean on Me: What’s the Best Treatment for Shoulder Tendonitis?

Shoulder tendonitis is one of the most common causes of shoulder pain. Also known as shoulder impingement, this condition causes inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons. It can make it different to hold your arm in certain positions, play sports, or even sleep.

Rotator cuff abnormalities affect 9.7 to 62% of the population. The risk of developing shoulder tendonitis and other related conditions increases with age. 

Athletes are more likely to develop this condition. Baseball and volleyball players, swimmers, and weightlifters face the highest risk. Manual labor and falls may cause injuries to your shoulder too.

Getting adequate treatment in a timely manner may help prevent complications. Therapeutic exercises combined with proper rest and chiropractic care can speed up your recovery.

Interested to find out more? Here’s what you should know about shoulder tendonitis treatment in Mill Creek, Washington so you can make an informed decision.

Shoulder Tendonitis Causes and Symptoms

This condition is common in both athletes and middle-aged people. Baseball players, tennis players, and bodybuilders, and other athletes who use their arms overhead are at higher risk. Occupations that involve manual work may lead to shoulder pain and inflammation too.

Rotator cuff tendonitis, or shoulder tendonitis, causes tenderness and swelling in the front of your shoulder. Its symptoms may resemble those of other injuries or conditions, which is why it’s important to see a doctor. These may include:

• Shoulder pain and soreness
• Mild swelling
• Clicking sounds when using the shoulder
• Sharp pain when lifting your arm
• Stiffness and limited range of motion

These symptoms are typically due to overuse of a muscle or tendon, but they may also result from trauma to the shoulder or inflammatory diseases.

If you have shoulder pain, your doctor may recommend an MRI scan, X-rays, or other diagnostic tests. First, he will try to rule out bursitis and other disorders with similar symptoms.

Know Your Treatment Options

After a physical examination, your doctor will prescribe a treatment plan based on your age, symptoms, and other factors. A combination of strengthening exercises, massage therapy, and rest is effective in most cases.

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive approach to shoulder tendonitis treatment. This form of therapy can help relieve muscle tension and strengthen the affected tendon, leading to pain relief.

Your chiropractor may also recommend bracing, ice therapy, and other techniques to decrease inflammation. As you begin to heal, he may prescribe gentle exercises to strengthen your shoulder and increase its mobility. 

Side-lying external rotations, doorway stretches, and supine passive arm elevation are just a few examples. The pendulum exercise can help too. Consistency is the key.

With proper care, your symptoms should subside within two weeks to one month. Surgery should be your last resort.

Relieve Shoulder Pain Naturally

Shoulder tendonitis can be debilitating. The sooner you do something about it, the lower the risk of complications.

At Amazing Life Chiropractic and Wellness, we provide chiropractic care, massage therapy, and custom exercise programs in Mill Creek, Washington. If you’re struggling with shoulder pain, we can develop a treatment plan that fits into your lifestyle.

Don’t make any compromises when it comes to your health. Reach out to our team to discuss your needs and see how we can help!