April 4, 2020 · health, Physiotherapy

You neck pain could be Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Neck pain caused by Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when there is tightness built up between the area of your neck and collarbone

Neck pain at Ace Health Centre on the Gold Coast — evidence-based care from our experienced team. Book online or call 07 5572 8855.

Neck pain at Ace Health Centre on the Gold Coast — evidence-based care from our team. Book online or call 07 5572 8855.

Neck pain on the Gold Coast — this Ace Health Centre guide walks you through what matters most: what to expect, how the treatment works, and how to book. Call (07) 5572 6222.

How Ace Health Centre Approaches Neck pain

Our team treats Neck pain as a structured pathway, not a one-off appointment. First, we work with you to confirm the diagnosis and rule out anything that needs imaging or a specialist referral. Next, we map out a phase-by-phase plan: settling the acute issue, restoring strength and range of motion, and progressing back to your normal life or sport. Furthermore, we coordinate care across podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology where the case calls for it, so you are not bouncing between separate clinics. As a result, you understand exactly what is happening, why it is happening, and what to do about it at every stage of treatment.

What is Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (neck pain)?

Neck pain caused by Thoracic outlet syndrome occurs when there is tightness built up between the area of your neck and collarbone. This pressure build-up can affect the nerves or blood vessels that are found in this area. Thoracic outlet syndrome is not as common as other conditions but does generally affects females more than males. It may occur due to either of the following:
–      A traumatic event
–      Repetitive injuries
–      Pregnancy
–      Body structure changes (i.e. having an extra rib)

Many symptoms overlap with other types of conditions which may make it difficult to initially identify.

What are the Signs & Symptoms?

If you have thoracic outlet syndrome, symptoms can vary from person to person. No one will have the exact same symptoms but may include some of the following:
–      Face pain
–      Neck pain
–      Chest pain
–      Shoulder pain
–      Burning or prickling feeling anywhere along the arm
–      Altered sensation anywhere along the arm
–      Arm weakness
–      Arm heaviness
–      Altered skin coloration
–      Coldness in the hand or fingers

Signs and symptoms tend to worsen when you raise your arm overhead. You may notice these symptoms during activities like serving a tennis ball or painting a ceiling. Driving or typing on a computer may also bring on some of these symptoms.

How to Treat Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Physiotherapy can help resolve the symptoms you are feeling above. Taking a thorough history of the symptoms you present with along with physical tests, can confirm or deny if you have thoracic outlet syndrome. Education regarding the condition can be provided to make you feel more assured and understand why you have these symptoms. Treatment may also include a mixture of the following:
–      Posture correction
–      Activity modification
–      Shoulder control exercises
–      Massage
–      Relaxation of tight muscles
–      Neck stretching exercises
–      Strengthening exercises
–      Shoulder joint mobilizations
–      Taping

Come see one of the physiotherapists at Ace today to relieve your pain and get your symptoms under control.

What to Expect From Neck pain at Ace Health Centre

Patients who book Neck pain with our team get a clinic-grade assessment, a clear plain-language plan, and a structured progression rather than a one-off appointment. Furthermore, we coordinate care across podiatry, physiotherapy, dietetics and exercise physiology where relevant, so you are not bouncing between clinics. Authoritative information on this topic is also available from Healthdirect Australia if you would like to read further before booking. As a result, you walk in informed and walk out with a plan you understand.

For more on what we do, see our main service page.

Frequently Asked Questions About Neck pain

Do I need a referral? No referral is needed for physiotherapy in private practice. With a GP Chronic Disease Management plan you may be eligible for bulk-billed sessions.

Is physiotherapy covered by health funds? Most private health extras with physio cover offer a rebate. We process HICAPS on the spot, so you walk out knowing your gap.

How many sessions will I need? Acute issues usually settle in 4-6 sessions. Longer-standing conditions may need a 6-12 week structured program. Your physio will give a clear plan at the first assessment.

Book Your Neck pain Appointment

Ready to get started? Call (07) 5572 6222 or book online. In addition, new patients can use our no-gap initial consult — straightforward, no surprises.

HICAPS on the spot with every major fund · Medicare CDM, DVA, NDIS & WorkCover accepted where applicable.
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Ready to act on what you read?

Book your Gold Coast assessment.

(07) 5572 6222