Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Signs or Symptoms

Numbness and weakness in the arm - usually worse at night or if carrying objects


The nerves and blood vessels that supply the arm are pinched as they exit the chest cage.


Weakness of the muscles that support normal posture causes shortening of the muscle that entraps the nerves and blood vessels.

Standard treatment

Stretching of the shortened muscles.

AK Approach

Testing is done to find the weak muscles that are not supporting the posture. These weaknesses are corrected and exercises are givens to strengthen them. Specific muscle therapies are then directed to normalize the length of the pectoralis minor muscle, the muscle that traps the nerves, and to stabilize the normal muscle coordination between the muscles of the front and back of the shoulder. These must be coordinated with an overall approach to normalize the complete posture of the patient. This may involve working on areas from the feet to the jaw muscles.

Other lifestyle modifications, like standing, sitting and sleep postures, are used to prevent or minimize exacerbating the condition. A specific program for your needs is created.