Thoracic Outlet Syndrome After Auto Injury in Keller, TX
Thoracic outlet syndrome is a painful condition affecting the neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. It occurs when nerves, arteries, or veins are compressed in the narrow passageway between the lower neck and the upper arm. Whiplash and other shearing injuries from a car accident can trigger this condition. At Performance Chiropractic Clinic, Dr. Dennis James performs a thorough evaluation to find the source of compression and uses gentle, non-invasive care to help restore healthy function.
Understanding Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Pain from thoracic outlet syndrome can be constant or intermittent, and may feel burning, sharp and stabbing, or aching. There are three main types:
- Neurogenic: compression of the brachial plexus nerves, the most common type, often causing pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness
- Venous: compression of a vein, which may cause swelling, heaviness, or bluish discoloration of the arm
- Arterial: compression of an artery, which may cause coldness, paleness, or loss of color in the hand or arm
Because symptoms overlap with radicular pain, shoulder injuries, and neck injuries, a careful evaluation is essential. Signs of vascular compression, such as sudden swelling, color change, or a cold hand, require prompt medical evaluation, and we will refer you immediately if they are present.
How We Help
When you visit our Keller office, Dr. James consults with you about your auto accident and symptoms, followed by any necessary orthopedic, neurological, and imaging procedures using our advanced technology. Chiropractic, acupuncture, and stretching are among the most common non-invasive approaches for this condition.
Proper care of the involved area with gentle chiropractic and Zone Healing and needle-less acupuncture helps relieve compression, whether it comes from nerve impingement or compressed blood vessels reducing circulation. Supportive therapies such as shockwave therapy for tight, restricted soft tissue and red light therapy may be added when appropriate.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome FAQs
What is thoracic outlet syndrome?
It is a condition in which nerves, arteries, or veins are compressed in the space between the collarbone, first rib, and surrounding muscles, causing symptoms in the neck, shoulder, arm, and hand.
Can a car accident cause thoracic outlet syndrome?
Yes. Whiplash and shearing forces can injure and tighten the muscles and tissues around the thoracic outlet, leading to compression.
What are the symptoms of thoracic outlet syndrome?
Symptoms may include arm or hand pain, numbness, tingling, weakness, swelling, heaviness, coldness, or color changes.
How is it different from a pinched nerve in the neck?
A pinched nerve involves a single nerve root at the spine, while thoracic outlet syndrome involves compression further down the pathway. A thorough exam helps tell the difference.
Is care for thoracic outlet syndrome gentle?
Yes. Dr. James uses precise, low-force techniques with no twisting or turning, along with needle-less acupuncture.
When should thoracic outlet symptoms be seen by a medical doctor?
Sudden arm swelling, color change, coldness, or significant weakness should be evaluated medically right away. We will refer you when these signs are present.
Relieve Arm and Shoulder Compression
Call Performance Chiropractic Clinic at (817) 337-3636 to schedule your consultation and examination with Dr. James.