Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) refers to conditions caused by the squeezing, injury, or irritation of nerves and blood vessels in the lower neck and upper chest. Named after the area located between your lower neck and upper chest, known as the thoracic outlet, TOS can affect anyone regardless of age or gender.
Types of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Neurological Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This type of TOS is the most usual. It happens when the brachial plexus—a bundle of nerves running from the spine, through the neck, to the arm—gets squeezed. It often affects those who do repetitive arm motions above their head at work or play sports like swimming or baseball.
Venous Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) occurs when the subclavian vein—a crucial vessel transporting blood from the arms to the heart—is compressed. Often due to congenital narrow pathway from the shoulder to the heart, TOS is worsened by repetitive arm and shoulder movements. These shrink the tight thoracic outlet space, increasing pressure on the vein and exacerbating TOS.
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Arterial Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: This condition, TOS, occurs when the subclavian artery—responsible for moving blood from the heart to the arm—gets blocked by a blood clot. It often affects people born with an additional rib in the neck or an irregularly shaped first rib, which can compress the artery and permanently narrow it.
Causes of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
TOS-related problems can be confusing, but we know they happen when the thoracic outlet's narrow space squeezes blood vessels or nerves too much, leading to irritation and TOS. Also, certain conditions, characteristics, or behaviors could increase your chances of getting TOS. These are called risk factors.
Unchangeable Risk Factors: You cannot alter these factors. Having more increases your TOS risk.
~ Pregnancy
Risk Factors You Can Change: These are the factors you can manage or improve with treatment, medication, or changes in your way of life.
1. Intense weightlifting.
2. Bad posture.
3. Sports with repeated arm/shoulder use.
4. Heavy loads on shoulders.
5. Depression.
Other conditions that contribute to the development of TOS:
1. Birth defects in body structure.
2. Abnormalities in bone and soft tissue.
3. Injury-related trauma.
4. Upper chest or underarm tumors or swollen lymph nodes.
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Kanwal Bhardwaj
PT, M.Sc.PT, CIMT, CMNT
Meet Kanwal Bhardwaj, PT, M.Sc.PT, CIMT, CMNT, the driving force behind Stride Physical Therapy in Freehold, NJ. With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the field, Kanwal brings a wealth of expertise and a passion for holistic healing to his practice. Kanwal's journey began with a Master of Science in Orthopedic Physical Therapy from Quinnipiac University in 2004. Over the years, he honed his skills and gained invaluable insights during 18 years of service in outpatient physical therapy offices. In 2014, fueled by a desire to deepen his understanding of patient care, he pursued a manual therapy certification (CIMT). This transformative experience allowed him to adopt a whole-body perspective, focusing on treating the root cause rather than just the symptoms...
At Stride Physical Therapy, we're dedicated to transforming lives. With a focus on the root cause of your condition, we're here to help you regain mobility and embrace an active lifestyle. What sets us apart? Our genuine passion for what we do. Let's stride towards a brighter tomorrow together.
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Reclaim Your Mobility with Kinesio Taping at Stride Physical Therapy in Freehold, NJ!
Are you tired of persistent pain holding you back? Whether you’re recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition, or simply looking to improve mobility, Stride Physical Therapy is here to help! We use the advanced technique of Kinesio Taping to not only relieve pain but also accelerate healing, improve muscle function, and enhance stability—so you can get back to doing what you love, pain-free.
Why Kinesio Taping?
Kinesio Taping is a specialized therapeutic technique designed to support muscles, joints, and tendons while allowing natural movement. This method helps reduce discomfort, improve circulation, and provide lasting relief for a variety of conditions.
The Benefits of Kinesio Taping
Reduces Swelling & Inflammation
Excessive strain, injuries, or post-surgical recovery often lead to inflammation and swelling. Kinesio tape works by lifting the skin slightly, allowing better fluid movement and reducing pressure, which promotes faster healing and improved mobility.
Enhances Joint Stability
Unstable joints can lead to pain and restricted movement. Kinesio tape provides the necessary support to keep your joints aligned while still allowing a natural range of motion, making it ideal for injury prevention and recovery.
Supports Scar Tissue Healing
Following surgeries or injuries, scar tissue can limit mobility and flexibility. Kinesio Taping helps stretch and manage scar tissue, improving the way signals travel between muscles and nerves for better movement and overall function.
Relieves Pain Naturally
Kinesio tape is designed to reduce pain by interfering with pain signals sent to the brain. This effect relaxes tight muscles, minimizes spasms, and encourages a smoother, more comfortable recovery process.
How Does Kinesio Tape Work?
Kinesio tape enhances your body’s natural healing process by improving communication between your skin, muscles, and tendons. It gently lifts the skin, improving circulation and reducing pressure on pain-sensitive structures. This leads to:
Better muscle function
Reduced stiffness and cramping
Increased blood flow for faster healing
What to Expect at Stride Physical Therapy
Our expert therapists assess your specific condition and integrate Kinesio Taping into a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs. We strategically apply the tape to target areas, ensuring maximum relief and support for your muscles and joints.
Ready to Experience Pain Relief?
Kinesio Taping has helped countless patients regain movement and overcome pain. At Stride Physical Therapy, we are committed to helping you achieve your best physical health. Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a pain-free, active lifestyle!
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