Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) is a very frustrating condition. You may already be familiar with the struggle if you are reading this and have experienced pain, numbness or tingling in your arms/hands…or neck. Living with it isn’t easy. What if I told you that massage therapy might give you some real relief? I’m going to break down the BIG issues (like how TOS and massage can work together) in small, fun conversation. I have witnessed first hand the dynamic improvements modulation therapy can precipitate. So, let’s dive in!
How Massage Therapy Eases TOS Symptoms
My Experience with Massage Therapy and TOS
What to Expect from Massage for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
With that kind of experience, you can very well expect the massage to center around the upper body-shoulders, neck, arms, and probably chest, too. Some of the techniques that can be employed by the therapist to achieve this include:
- Trigger Point Therapy: It approaches trigger points that are tight areas inside muscle tissues. This technique is non-toxic and an utterly natural way to dissolve the source of the tightness without delay.
- Deep Tissue Massage: This involves focusing on deeper layers of muscles. A bit painful, but very well worth it.
- Myofascial Release: This is stretching the denser, more rigid connective tissues surroundings of the muscles in an effort to reduce tension.
You might have some areas of pain here and there during the sessions, though not such that you’d be unable to bear. Always communicate with your therapist. If it gets too overwhelming, tell him that. And do not feel worried-if you do so, it would be in the interest of your well-being since massage therapy works better on a relaxed body.
How Often Should You Get a Massage?
Other Benefits of Massage for TOS
- Relieves Stress: A stressed body tightens up as a protection mechanism. Getting a massage is very relaxing and should cause you to think straight. And once that happens, then flare-ups would not generally occur.
- Better Sleep: After all, it can be quite difficult to sleep when your body is writhing in pain or keeps going numb. By alleviating discomfort, massage can support sleep.
- Improves Mood: It can be a struggle living with TOS. Massaging can produce endorphins that may make you feel happier.
When to See a Doctor
Finding the Right Massage Therapist
Take the First Step Toward Relief
For professional massage therapy, look no further than Step Above Massage. Understanding the struggle of living with TOS, they’re committed to helping you feel better.
Common FAQ’s for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
1. How does massage help Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS)?
Massage therapy serves by releasing muscle tension and increasing blood circulation. When the muscles surrounding the thoracic outlet are relaxed, then this in itself alleviates pressures impinging on the nerves and blood vessels. This can ease pain, numbness, and stiffness brought about by the TOS. Regular sessions also spur healing by opening up blood flow to affected areas.
2. How many massage sessions are needed for TOS?
These would be dependent on the severity of your symptoms. Some people start off with a weekly massage, then gradually reduce this as symptoms improve, while others can get away with one session per month to keep symptoms at bay. The more consistent you are, the better the results.
3. Is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome ever cured totally using massage treatment?
Massage can help a lot in reducing the symptoms; however, it is by no means a permanent cure for TOS. It works best when complemented by other treatments such as physical therapy or stretching exercises. You may consult a doctor in very severe cases.
4. Are there risks associated with receiving massage for TOS?
Massage seems to be a relatively safe intervention; however, you really do want to make sure you find an experienced therapist. An overly vigorous massage can indeed bring on an exacerbation of symptoms. If at anytime during the massage you are uncomfortable, let your therapist know. If you do have any other medical conditions, discuss these with your physician before starting massage therapy.
5. Does massage help other symptoms too, such as headaches or neck pain?
You could say yes, massage therapy does help headaches and neck pains-so long as the headache or neck pains are related directly to the muscle tension. Many times with TOS, it creates tension in the neck and shoulders; therefore, massage can target that and help relieve it. It is a great way of taking care of several symptoms all at once.