Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) Treatment in Sarasota, FL | Dr. Sandy Arthur
Have you ever felt tingling in your hands, numbness down your arms, or nagging tightness in your shoulders and neck? You may be experiencing Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)—a condition where the blood vessels or nerves in the brachial plexus (the nerve bundle that runs from your neck into your arm) become compressed.
In simpler terms? TOS happens when tight muscles in your neck, chest, or shoulder region squeeze nerves or blood vessels, causing pain, tingling, or weakness.
At Well Co Chiropractic in Sarasota, FL, I see this condition frequently in weightlifters, runners, golfers, and other active adults. Poor posture, repetitive overhead movements, or muscle imbalances often play a big role in flare-ups.
Symptoms of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)
Common signs of TOS may include:
Tingling or numbness in the hands and fingers
Pain down the arm or into the shoulder
Weak grip strength
Muscle tightness in the neck, chest, or shoulders
These symptoms can worsen during workouts or daily activities, especially if posture and mobility aren’t addressed.
How I Treat TOS at Well Co Chiropractic
I use a sports-focused approach that combines Active Release Technique (ART) and chiropractic care. ART allows me to target the muscles that commonly compress nerves in TOS, including:
Scalenes (sides of the neck)
Cervical muscles (back of the neck)
Pectoral muscles, armpit, and biceps
Trapezius & levator scapulae (upper back and shoulders)
By releasing tight, overused muscles and improving joint alignment, we restore space for nerves and blood vessels to move freely, reducing pain, numbness, and tingling.
Why Posture & Recovery Matter
Treating TOS isn’t just about what happens in the office, it’s also about what you do every day. I coach my patients to:
Pay attention to posture at work and during training
Practice breathing mechanics to reduce neck and chest tightness
Include proper warm-ups and cooldowns when lifting or running
These small changes can prevent flare-ups and keep you performing at your best.
Don’t Ignore Tingling or Numbness
If you’re noticing tightness in the front of your neck, tingling in your hands, or pain that won’t go away, don’t wait. Thoracic Outlet Syndrome responds well to early treatment with Active Release Technique and chiropractic care.
