Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a condition that affects the area between your neck and shoulder where nerves and blood vessels travel into the arm. When these structures become compressed or irritated, it can lead to pain, numbness, or weakness in the shoulder and arm.

This condition may develop from poor posture, repetitive overhead movements, previous injuries, or long hours of desk work. Over time, tight muscles or joint restrictions around the collarbone and upper ribs can place pressure on nearby nerves or blood vessels.Some people notice symptoms while carrying bags, driving or working at a computer. If not addressed, these symptoms can interfere with daily tasks and overall comfort.

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Types of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Patterns

Nerve-Related Symptoms: When nerves become compressed, you may feel tingling, numbness, burning or weakness in the arm, hand, or fingers. Symptoms often worsen when the arm is raised overhead, stretched outward or held in one position for an extended period.

Circulatory-Related Symptoms: If nearby blood vessels are affected, the arm may feel cold, heavy, tight or swollen. Some people notice changes in skin color, temperature differences between arms, or increased fatigue with light activity.

Posture-Related Compression: Rounded shoulders, a forward head position, or slouched sitting can reduce space between the collarbone and upper ribs. Over time, this narrowing may increase pressure on nerves and vessels, leading to ongoing neck, shoulder and arm discomfort.

Activity-Triggered Flare-Ups: Symptoms may intensify during overhead lifting, carrying bags, repetitive reaching, or long hours at a computer. While rest can temporarily ease discomfort, repeated strain may cause the symptoms to return.

Comprehensive Care for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Postural Correction: Improving sitting and standing posture helps reduce pressure around the collarbone and upper chest area.
Activity Modification: Limiting repetitive overhead movements and heavy carrying can calm irritation while healing begins
Stretching & Mobility Exercises: Gentle stretches for the chest, neck and shoulders improve flexibility and create more space for nerves and vessels.
Strengthening Exercises: Building strength in the upper back and shoulder muscles improves stability and long-term support.
Breathing & Rib Mobility Work: Improving breathing patterns and rib movement can reduce tightness in the upper chest region.
Physiotherapy Support: Hands-on treatment combined with guided exercises helps reduce compression, improve circulation and restore comfortable arm function.

Benefits of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome Treatment

TOS can make simple activities like lifting, carrying, typing or sleeping uncomfortable. Arm heaviness or tingling may affect concentration and confidence in movement. With steady care and guided rehabilitation, many people notice gradual relief.

Our treatment process can help to
Why Chosse Us

Supportive Care for Shoulder and Arm Symptoms

At Q’s Wellness Clinic, we provide individualized and attentive care for people experiencing shoulder, neck, and arm symptoms related to compression or nerve irritation. We understand how frustrating it can feel when symptoms travel into the arm. Our focus is clear assessment and steady, structured recovery

Our aim is to help you feel comfortable, supported and confident using your arm again.

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Before Your Appointment

If any specific instructions are needed before your visit, our team will inform you ahead of time. Most appointments require little preparation.

First & Follow-Up Visits

Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your neck, shoulders, and upper chest area. Try to avoid heavy overhead activity before your session.

Your first appointment typically lasts 45–60 minutes. During this time, your therapist will review your symptoms, posture, work habits and medical history. They will assess shoulder movement, nerve sensitivity, strength and circulation. A clear explanation and personalized recovery plan will be provided.

During follow-up visits, we track your progress and adjust exercises as needed. Let us know if tingling, heaviness or pain changes. Your feedback helps guide steady improvement.

Before leaving, our team will assist you in booking your next appointment at our Surrey clinic.

After Your Appointment

After treatment, you may notice improved shoulder movement or reduced arm tension. For some people, changes happen gradually as posture and strength improve.

Mild soreness can occur as tight muscles begin to release and strengthen. This is normal and usually short-lived. Gentle stretching or heat application, if recommended, can help ease temporary discomfort.

Insurance Support & Claims Assistance

Physiotherapy for upper body and nerve-related conditions is often covered under extended health plans. Since coverage varies, our team can review your benefits and offer direct billing where available.

If your symptoms began after a motor vehicle accident, approved ICBC claims may help cover your treatment and support recovery.

If repetitive job duties, desk posture, or lifting tasks contributed to your condition, you may qualify for coverage. We assist with documentation and structured rehabilitation planning.

Extended Health Insurance

Physiotherapy for upper body and nerve-related conditions is often covered under extended health plans. Since coverage varies, our team can review your benefits and offer direct billing where available.

If your symptoms began after a motor vehicle accident, approved ICBC claims may help cover your treatment and support recovery.

If repetitive job duties, desk posture, or lifting tasks contributed to your condition, you may qualify for coverage. We assist with documentation and structured rehabilitation planning.

Our Commitment to Quality Care

01. Collaborative Care

Our team works in coordination to ensure your treatment plan is consistent, well-structured, and aligned with your recovery goals.

02. Patient-Centered Focus

Every treatment plan is tailored to your condition, comfort level, and personal goals. We keep you informed and involved throughout your care.

03. Evidence-Informed Practice

We use clinically supported techniques along with hands-on experience to deliver safe, effective, and reliable treatment.

04. Respectful Environment

We use clinically supported techniques along with hands-on experience to deliver safe, effective, and reliable treatment.

05. Focus on Long-Term Wellness

Our goal is not only short-term relief but lasting improvement in movement, strength, and overall well-being.

06. Comprehensive Support

We assess your condition carefully and look at contributing factors to provide complete and well-rounded care.

07. Inclusive & Fair Care

We are committed to offering equal, unbiased care to individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.

GOT A QUESTION

Frequently
Asked Questions

If you are experiencing arm heaviness, tingling or shoulder discomfort, we are here to guide you safely toward recovery.

01. What are the common signs of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
People often describe a deep ache in the shoulder or upper chest along with tingling or numbness in the arm or fingers. The arm may feel heavy, tired or weak, especially during overhead tasks.
02. Why do my symptoms increase when I lift my arm?
Raising the arm can further narrow the space between the collarbone and upper ribs. This added pressure may temporarily increase nerve or blood vessel irritation.
03. Is this condition caused by poor posture?
Poor posture is a common contributing factor, particularly rounded shoulders and forward head position. Over time, this can place extra pressure on sensitive structures in the area.
04. Can exercise help improve my symptoms?
Yes, when done correctly. Targeted stretching and strengthening exercises help create more space, improve support, and reduce ongoing compression.
05. When should I seek professional care?
If tingling, weakness or arm discomfort continues for several weeks or interferes with daily activities, it is best to get assessed early.
06. What does treatment aim to achieve?
Treatment focuses on relieving pressure, improving posture and muscle balance, and restoring comfortable arm movement for daily life and work activities.