Overview
When nerves and blood vessels get squeezed near your collarbone and first rib. This compression can cause arm pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. ELDOA helps create space in this crowded area.
Detailed Description
Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) describes a group of disorders caused by compression of the brachial plexus nerves, subclavian artery, or subclavian vein in the thoracic outlet—the space between the collarbone and first rib. This compression can be caused by anatomical abnormalities, poor posture, repetitive overhead movements, or trauma.
There are three main types: neurogenic TOS (most common, affecting nerves), venous TOS (affecting the subclavian vein), and arterial TOS (affecting the subclavian artery). Symptoms vary by type but often include pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm and hand, and may worsen with overhead activities.
ELDOA addresses TOS through cervicothoracic junction exercises that decompress the C7-T1 region, improve first rib mobility, and release scalene muscle tension. By addressing postural factors like forward head posture and rounded shoulders, ELDOA helps open the thoracic outlet space and reduce compression on neurovascular structures.
Common Symptoms
- Pain in neck, shoulder, or arm
- Numbness or tingling in fingers
- Weakness in hand or arm
- Arm fatigue with overhead activities
- Swelling or discoloration (vascular TOS)
- Cold sensitivity in hands
ELDOA Approach
- C7-T1 junction decompression
- First rib mobilization techniques
- Scalene muscle release
- Postural correction exercises
- Upper thoracic spine mobility
- Breathing pattern optimization