Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief in Nevada City
Are you dealing with numbness, tingling, or aching in your arms, shoulders, or hands—especially after working at a desk, exercising, or sleeping? You may be experiencing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)—a common yet often overlooked condition we treat right here at Radius Physical + Sports Rehab in Nevada City and Grass Valley.
What Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) occurs when nerves or blood vessels become compressed between your neck, collarbone, and upper chest. These vital structures pass through a small space known as the thoracic outlet, and when that space narrows due to tight muscles, poor posture, or anatomical differences, it can cause pain and a range of uncomfortable symptoms.
TOS is more common than most people realize, especially in:
Desk workers with forward head posture
Athletes or active adults who use their arms overhead
Women, who are statistically more likely to experience TOS
People with prior neck or shoulder injuries
Common Symptoms of TOS
If you have Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, you might notice symptoms such as:
Numbness, tingling, or “pins and needles” in the arms or fingers
Weakness or heaviness in the upper extremity
Pain or tightness in the neck, collarbone, shoulder, or upper chest
Worsening symptoms when lifting arms, typing, or lying down
Patients often report that sleep, overhead movements, or long hours at the computer make things worse. Sound familiar? You're not alone—and we can help.
What Causes Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
TOS can develop from several causes:
Muscle tightness, especially in the scalenes (sides of the neck) and pectoralis minor (front of the chest)
Poor posture, including forward head and rounded shoulders
Repetitive overhead activity
Cervical ribs or elongated bones (anatomical variations)
Previous trauma or injury to the neck and shoulder area
Because TOS has multiple potential causes, it’s important to receive a thorough assessment to determine your unique contributing factors.
How Radius Helps You Recover from TOS
At Radius Physical + Sports Rehab, our musculoskeletal specialists are trained to accurately assess and treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome through conservative, non-invasive methods. Most patients do not need surgery and respond well to personalized rehab.
Your care plan may include:
✅ Targeted manual therapy to reduce muscular tension
✅ Posture correction strategies to relieve compression
✅ Custom stretches and exercises to open the thoracic outlet
✅ Strengthening for surrounding muscles to improve support
✅ Lifestyle modifications and ergonomic advice
We also work closely with you to identify and modify aggravating activities, whether that’s typing at your desk, reaching overhead, or how you sleep.
Why Choose Radius for TOS Treatment in Nevada City?
We’re proud to serve the Nevada City, Grass Valley, and Nevada County communities with compassionate, expert care. Our team treats every patient like family—and we specialize in identifying and resolving the root cause of your pain.
Whether you’re an athlete, a busy parent, or a professional tied to your desk, our goal is to help you:
Reduce pain
Improve mobility
Restore strength
Prevent future flare-ups
Don’t Let TOS Limit Your Life
If you’re struggling with upper body numbness, pain, or discomfort that worsens with posture or activity, you don’t have to wait for it to get worse. Conservative care works—and we’re here to help.
📅 Call Radius Physical + Sports Rehab at (530) 955-0065 today or book online to schedule your evaluation and get on the path to lasting relief.