Neck and Shoulder
Impingment and Tendinitis
Involves one or a combination of problems, including inflammation of the lubricating sac (bursa) located just over the rotator cuff, a condition called bursitis; inflammation of the rotator cuff tendons, called tendinitis; and calcium deposits in tendons caused by wear and tear or injury. A torn rotator cuff is a potential outcome of shoulder impingement.
Symptoms: Mild to severe pain and limited movement. Inability to hold the arm in certain positions.
Sympathetically Mediated Pain Syndromes
Symptoms: Persistent and intense limb pain.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a constellation of conditions which can result in arm pain, numbness, tingling and fatigue in the upper extremity. Seen in people who use there arms repetitively and with overhead activity. The nerves which emerge from the spinal cord along with the vessels which leave the chest cavity combine in the upper chest and make their way to the arm. At several points along this path irritation and compression can occur between certain muscles, the collarbone and the upper ribs. This condition and it's diagnosis is complex as symptoms overlap with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome as well as Cervical spine and vascular conditions.
Symptoms: Symptoms vary, depending on which structures (nerves or blood vessels) are being compressed. Pressure on the blood vessels can reduce the flow of blood to your arms and hands, making them feel cool and tire easily. Pressure on the nerves can leave you with a vague, aching pain in your neck, shoulder, arm or hand. Overhead activities are particularly difficult.