Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is pathological condition in which the thoracic outlet, which is a neurovascular bundle present between the base of the neck and the armpit, gets compressed. This nerve compressions results in head, neck, arm and shoulder pain with loss of grip and poor blood circulation. There is compression along with irritation of nerves and blood vessels present in shoulder and neck region.
Symptoms Of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
- Change in sensation in hands like ‘pins and needles’ feeling.
- Weakness of the trapezius muscles.
- The hand gets a bluish discoloration.
- Swelling in the hand.
- The hands feel cold due to poor blood circulation.
How Can Massage Therapy Help Patients With Thoracic Outlet Syndrome?
Massage treatment has been of great benefit in treating symptoms present in Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. For this, massage therapist may use a variety of techniques to alleviate the symptoms. Trigger Point as well as Neuromuscular Therapy helps in eliminating myofascial trigger points inside the muscles in the anterior neck region. Deep Tissue Massages or Myofascial Release methods help in breaking down the fascial adhesions found in thoracic outlet region.
Muscle Energy technique is also of help in increasing the length of muscles present in shoulder, neck, chest and relieving discomfort and pain. All these techniques help in reducing the pressure and effects that the nerve impingement may have, and also helps in relieving weakness and heaviness of arms. Other than this, positional release technique works with nervous system and also helps in relaxing or loosening up muscles along with decreasing nerve compression as well as improves joint mobility.