Definition
a group of disorders that occur when blood vessels in the thoracic outlet or nerves in the thoracic outlet -- the space between your collarbone and your first rib -- are compressed.
Examination
You are checked for this condition when arm pain or circulatory problems of the arms are suspected. A thorough, clinical examination that may include imaging is important to your Thoracic Outlet Syndrome's management.
Thoracic Spine Exam Description
Treatment
In office, OrthoIllinois Chiropractic uses Cox Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression to widen the canal space, drop the intradiscal pressure and increase the disc height to relieve pain.
Cox Technic opens the vertebral spaces to relieve pain. You will welcome the Cox Technic manipulation that gently "pulls you apart," as many patients describe the treatment or say they need. Depending on the severity of your pain and symptoms, gentler side-lying Cox Technic may be applied until 50% relief of pain or supine Cox Technic with you lying face up may be applied to guide your recovery.
Goal of Cox Technic for Thoracic Spine (mid-back)
The disc is pressing on the nerve. Note that as the disc herniation reduces, the pinched nerve is relieved.
This is an animation of the goal of Cox Technic
Flexion-Distraction and Decompression: reduced irritation of spinal elements
enough to relieve pain and help you regain your quality of life. The amount of
decrease in size of the herniated disc necessary for pain relief varies from 0%
to 100% for each individual patient.
Cox Technic for Thoracic Spine (mid-back)
In office adjunctive care may hasten your recovery.
At Home Care
At home you may want to avoid sitting for long periods of time, wear a support brace if recommended, take nutritional supplements that help rebuild disc cartilage, do exercises that strengthen your spine, sleep on a supportive mattress, sit in an ergonomically designed chair, and modify your daily activities as needed.
Contact OrthoIllinois Chiropractic for management of your thoracic outlet syndrome.