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what can i do about thoracic outlet syndrome?

19/3/2024

By Duke Autret, Myotherapist

If your doctor has diagnosed you with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS), you may be wondering what to do next to treat the pain, numbness or tingling in your neck, shoulder or arm.

Lets first look at what this condition is, in easy to understand terms. We'll also look at another condition called Scapulocostal Syndrome that shares similar symptoms. Then we will look at the ways a Myotherapist can help you with the neck, shoulder, arm or hand symptoms you're experiencing, whether its from Thoracic Outlet Syndrome or Scapulocostal Syndrome.

What is TOS?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a condition characterised by compression of the nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet area, located between the collarbone and the first rib. This compression can lead to a variety of symptoms, including pain, numbness, and tingling in the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand.

Causes & Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
TOS can be caused by a combination of factors, including:

Anatomical Variations: Certain anatomical features, such as a narrow thoracic outlet or an extra rib (cervical rib), can predispose individuals to TOS.
Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve repetitive movements of the arms or shoulders, such as typing or carrying heavy loads, can contribute to muscle imbalances and compression of the thoracic outlet structures.
Trauma or Injury: Accidents or injuries, such as whiplash injuries or fractures of the collarbone or ribs, can also lead to TOS.

Common symptoms of TOS include:

Pain, numbness, or tingling in the neck, shoulder, arm, or hand
Weakness (or even muscle wasting) in the affected arm
Coldness or changes in skin temperature in the affected arm
Swelling or discolouration of the arm

Scapulocostal Syndrome is a Related Condition
Scapulocostal Syndrome, also known as snapping scapula syndrome, shares similarities with TOS. It involves excess tension, trigger points, irritation or inflammation of the soft tissues between the scapula (shoulder blade) and the ribs, resulting in pain behind the shoulder blade and upper back with sometimes audible or palpable snapping or clicking sensations during shoulder movement.

Commonalities Between TOS and Scapulocostal Syndrome

Muscle Imbalances: Both conditions can result from muscle imbalances or poor posture, leading to compression of nerves and blood vessels in the thoracic outlet or between the scapula and ribs.
Repetitive Movements: Activities that involve repetitive shoulder movements or overhead activities can exacerbate symptoms in both TOS and scapulocostal syndrome.
Symptoms: Similar symptoms may occur in both conditions, including pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected arm, shoulder blade or shoulder region.

Myotherapy Interventions for TOS and Scapulocostal Syndrome:
Targeted Manual Techniques

Soft Tissue Manipulation: Myotherapists utilise soft tissue manipulation techniques to release tension and alleviate compression of the brachial plexus (nerve bundle) in the thoracic outlet or between the scapula and ribs.
Trigger Point Therapy: Targeted pressure on specific muscle points helps relieve pain and improve range of motion of the muscles and joints in the affected areas.

Postural Correction and Strengthening Exercises

Postural Awareness: Myotherapists educate individuals on proper posture and ergonomic principles to reduce strain on the thoracic outlet or scapulocostal region.
Strengthening Exercises: Tailored exercises strengthen the muscles surrounding the thoracic outlet or scapulocostal area, improving stability and reducing compression.
Nerve Glides: These are exercises to help the nerves lengthen and/or slide freely throughout their pathways and relieve compression induced symptoms.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome and Scapulocostal Syndrome can significantly impact daily life, causing pain and discomfort in the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand. Myotherapy offers tailored interventions to address the underlying muscle imbalances, reduce compression, and alleviate symptoms associated with these conditions.

If you're experiencing symptoms of TOS or scapulocostal syndrome or you've been given the diagnosis by your GP, consulting a qualified myotherapist is the first step towards finding relief and improving your overall well-being.
Take proactive steps towards a pain-free life today and book a time with a great Myotherapist here at Simple Wellness Myotherapy.

Spinal Stenosis - How Myotherapy Can Help

12/3/2024

By Duke Autret, Myotherapist

Spinal stenosis is a condition that affects the spinal canal, the space within the spine housing the spinal cord and nerve roots. This narrowing of the spinal canal can exert pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, leading to a range of symptoms. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of spinal stenosis, exploring its causes, symptoms, and diverse treatment options

Causes of Spinal Stenosis
Spinal stenosis can arise from various factors, including:

Degenerative Changes: Conditions like arthritis or disc degeneration can gradually narrow the spinal canal.
Herniated or Bulging Discs: Discs that protrude into the spinal canal may compress the spinal cord or nerves.
Congenital Conditions: Some individuals may have a naturally narrow spinal canal from birth.
Trauma or Injury: Spinal stenosis can develop in response to spine-related trauma or injury.

Symptoms of Spinal Stenosis
The symptoms of spinal stenosis manifest differently based on the severity and location of canal narrowing. Common symptoms include:

Pain or numbness in the back, legs, or arms.
Weakness or tingling sensations in the extremities.
Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods.
Loss of bladder or bowel control in severe cases.

Treatment Options for Spinal Stenosis
Effectively addressing spinal stenosis through myotherapy involves tailoring treatments to the individual's symptoms and the severity of the condition. Myotherapy, with its specialised focus on muscle and soft tissue therapy, offers targeted interventions for relief.
Myotherapy Techniques

Myotherapy Exercises: Tailored strengthening and stretching exercises play a crucial role in alleviating pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, thereby reducing the symptoms of spinal stenosis.
Soft Tissue Massage: Myotherapists utilise soft tissue massage to target specific areas, releasing tension and promoting healing in the muscles surrounding the affected spinal region.

Trigger Point Therapy: Targeted pressure on specific muscle points aids in relieving pain associated with spinal stenosis and improves overall range of motion.
Myofascial Release: This technique stretches and releases the connective tissue around the affected area, enhancing circulation and reducing pain.

Medical Management
In conjunction with myotherapy techniques, managing spinal stenosis symptoms may involve specific medications by working with a GP:
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): These medications help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation associated with spinal stenosis.

Pain Medications: Myotherapists may collaborate with healthcare providers to incorporate pain medications into the treatment plan for enhanced relief.

Or a specialist Doctor or Orthopaedic surgeon:

Injections: Corticosteroid injections administered by myotherapists can precisely target and reduce inflammation in the affected area, providing focused relief from symptoms.
Surgical Considerations: While myotherapy primarily focuses on non-invasive techniques, in severe cases, myotherapists may work alongside surgical interventions to relieve pressure on the spinal cord, potentially involving vertebrae removal or spinal canal widening. Myotherapists can offer pre-surgical and post-surgical care that can help a patient to have improved outcomes of the surgery.

Embracing Relief and Preventing Spinal Stenosis through Active Lifestyle through Myotherapy
While complete prevention may not be possible, myotherapy emphasises proactive measures to reduce the risk of developing or worsening spinal stenosis:

Myotherapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises alleviate pressure on the spinal cord and nerves, reducing symptoms.
Postural Awareness: Myotherapy emphasises good posture, educating individuals on maintaining spinal alignment to reduce stress on the spinal canal.
Tailored Exercise Programs: Myotherapists create customised exercise routines to strengthen and maintain spinal flexibility, promoting overall spine health.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight: Myotherapists guide individuals on exercises and lifestyle modifications to support a healthy weight, minimising strain on the spine.
Lifestyle Choices: Encouraging individuals to avoid smoking, a habit linked to the development of spinal stenosis, is a crucial aspect of myotherapy preventive care.
Spinal stenosis, with its range of symptoms, necessitates a comprehensive approach for effective relief and management. Seeking guidance from a myotherapist can be the first step toward an active and healthy lifestyle, tailored to your individual needs. Consult a qualified myotherapy professional today to embark on the journey towards relief and improved well-being.

Do you have a diagnosis of spinal stenosis? Management of this condition is possible, particularly in the early stages of diagnosis. Book with our team to discuss the most important steps you can take to care for your spine.

what can i do about thoracic outlet syndrome?

Spinal Stenosis - How Myotherapy Can Help

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