Home Remedies for Thoracic Outlet Syndrome That Actually Work

Before you spend money on the latest gadget or supplement, here's what our doctors actually recommend to patients with thoracic outlet syndrome — and what we tell them to skip.

Thoracic outlet syndrome is compression of the nerves and blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib — producing arm pain, numbness, or heaviness.

What Actually Helps at Home

• Alternate ice and heat. Ice for sharp, recent pain. Heat for stiff, chronic patterns. Twenty minutes on, at least an hour off.
• Gentle, frequent movement. Ten-minute walks every couple of hours beat one long walk once a day.
• Sleep setup. Side or back sleeping with pillow support. Never stomach.
• Hydration. Discs and connective tissue are water-based. Chronically dehydrated tissue heals slower.
• Magnesium at night (talk to your primary care doctor first). Helps a subset of patients with muscle-driven pain.
• **Cutting the aggravating activity temporari

Book Your Visit

Call (818) 707-5724 or book online. Same-week appointments in La Cañada Flintridge — serving Pasadena, Glendale, La Crescenta, Montrose, Burbank, and Altadena.