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Thoracic Outlet Syndrome: the posture‑driven cause of arm tingling & cold hands

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If your arm keeps going numb or your hands feel icy for no clear reason, it might not be “poor circulation” alone. A very common culprit is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS) — when tight neck/chest muscles and a slouched posture squeeze the nerves and blood vessels travelling from your neck, under the collarbone and through the chest into the arm.

What TOS feels like

  • Tingling, pins‑and‑needles or numbness in the arm/hand

  • Achy forearm fatigue when typing, driving or carrying a bag

  • Coldness or colour change in the hand after sitting or slouching

  • Neck/shoulder tightness, forward‑head or hunched upper back

Why posture matters

Rounded shoulders and a forward‑head posture push the shoulder blades outwards. The scalenes, subclavius and pectoralis minor tense up and compress the neurovascular bundle, irritating nerves and narrowing blood flow. Inflammation in these areas keeps the cycle going.

Our evidence‑based plan at J&J Therapy (London)

Treat the cause + calm the tissue — that’s how we get durable results.

  • Corrective therapeutic massage to release scalene and pectoralis minor tension and glide the nerves freely.

  • Focused shockwave therapy to reduce stubborn muscle inflammation quickly and promote tissue recovery (non‑invasive).

  • Physio‑led posture correction with neck re‑set, scapular control and chest‑opening work.

  • Nerve‑gliding drills (median/ulnar/radial) and breathing retraining to keep space open for nerves and vessels.

  • Electro‑therapy (TENS/IFC) when pain spikes; lymphatic massage if swelling lingers.

Most people feel clear improvement within 3–5 sessions when shockwave is combined with corrective massage and a short home routine.

Try these at home (little‑and‑often)

  1. Doorway pec stretch 30 s × 3 2) Chin tucks 10 reps

  2. Scalene stretch 20 s each side 4) Median‑nerve glide slow & gentle

  3. Keep screens at eye level, avoid heavy single‑strap bags.

Red flags: sudden hand weakness, severe colour change or intense swelling — please seek medical assessment.

Ready to stop the tingling? Book your assessment at JJTHERAPY365.com or WhatsApp 07882 943 540 (Korean & English supported).

 
 
 

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