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Monday 9am - 9pm Tuesday 9am - 9pm Wednesday 9am - 9pm Thursday 9am - 9pm Friday 9am - 9pm Saturday 9am - 2pm

Team Doctors Academy, 222 W Ontario Street, Ste 503, Chicago, IL (2025)

12/02/2025

The Hidden Incentives Behind TOS Surgery

In my clinical experience, many people diagnosed with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome have never been given a clear explanation of why surgery is necessary. What they don’t know is how medical incentives can influence the decision-making process.

Across the country, changes in reimbursement have made cervical fusion more profitable than less invasive options. This has contributed to a rise in long-term complications and cases of chronic pain.

Patients often describe worsening symptoms after procedures meant to relieve nerve compression. Many of these issues stem from structural changes created by aggressive treatments.

It’s essential to understand how these decisions are shaped behind the scenes. Not all surgeons participate in this, but the system creates pressure.

Education empowers patients to make informed choices — especially when the stakes involve the neck, nerves, and overall function.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, cervical fusion, medical incentives, chronic pain, nerve compression, vascular TOS, spine alignment

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

12/02/2025

Why You’re Not Healing: The Righting Reflex Explained

Many individuals struggle with persistent neck pain and TOS symptoms because they don’t understand the righting reflex. This reflex forces the scalene muscles to contract whenever the head drifts away from perpendicular alignment with gravity.

Leaning left activates the right scalenes. Leaning right activates the left. Leaning backward—on a couch or in bed—activates both sides continuously. This prolonged contraction leads to fatigue, inflammation, and guarding that can mimic thoracic outlet compression.

Understanding this mechanism helps individuals identify posture habits that perpetuate symptoms.

Neck pain, TOS symptoms, righting reflex, scalene muscles, right scalenes, both sides, fatigue

12/02/2025

A Mother’s Powerful Story of Hope After Failed TOS Surgery

In my clinical experience, persistent cold hands and arm weakness often occur when the true thoracic outlet choke point is missed. Brady suffered for years after a first rib surgery failed to restore his circulation.

A deeper evaluation revealed significant pectoralis minor tension, forearm overload, and areas of brachial plexus irritation that had never been examined. These patterns can mimic vascular blockage even when imaging is unclear.

As inflammation was reduced over several days, blood flow returned, his hands warmed, and the chronic pain disappeared. His mother described this moment as life-changing.

This case is a reminder that identifying the correct choke point is essential in understanding Thoracic Outlet Syndrome.

Cold hands, first rib surgery, pectoralis minor tension, forearm overload, brachial plexus irritation, blood flow returned, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

12/02/2025

How Pectoralis Minor Tension Can Mimic True TOS

In my clinical experience, one of the most overlooked contributors to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome-like symptoms is tension in the pectoralis minor. This muscle can create patterns of subclavian vein compression, brachial plexus irritation, and reflexive muscle guarding that resemble classic TOS cases.

Many individuals are surprised to learn that the thoracic outlet has three choke points. When the scalenes tighten, or the pectoralis minor contracts excessively, tissues may shift into the outlet and narrow important spaces.

MRV scans often show narrowing beneath the pectoralis minor when the arm is raised, but this does not automatically indicate structural TOS. In many cases, the narrowing reflects chronic muscle guarding rather than anatomical compression.

Understanding these relationships helps people interpret imaging more clearly and recognize how posture and repetitive strain contribute to symptoms.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, pectoralis minor, subclavian vein compression, brachial plexus irritation, muscle guarding, scalene tightness, repetitive strain

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

12/02/2025

How Modern Gadget Use Is Causing Severe Upper Extremity Inflammation

In my clinical experience, the sharp rise in upper extremity inflammation is directly tied to how much time people spend manipulating digital devices. The average adult now engages in more than 11 hours of daily screen interaction.

As smartphone use increased, so did cases of Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, severe forearm pressure, and chronic tech neck patterns. Patients often report escalating symptoms as more apps, notifications, and short-form videos demand constant arm and hand activity.

Today, reversing chronic inflammation patterns may require 25–30 hours of deep tissue work—and compartment syndrome cases often require even more. Many individuals are unaware of how dramatically device posture stresses the entire chain from fingertip to neck.

We must raise awareness about repetitive strain and the long-term consequences of excessive device use.

Upper extremity inflammation, Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, forearm pressure, tech neck, compartment syndrome, repetitive strain, chronic inflammation

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

11/30/2025

When TOS Symptoms Are Mistaken for Neuropathy

Some symptoms travel through the hand in ways that can easily be mistaken for diabetic neuropathy. But when numbness begins at the pinky and ring fingers, the pattern may suggest involvement of the lower brachial plexus instead.

Musicians, computer users, and anyone with prolonged reaching positions often place more demand on the pectoralis minor and shoulder stabilizers. When these muscles fatigue, they may trigger compression-like symptoms that spread into the hand.

Understanding these mechanics helps explain why some individuals experience years of uncertainty before discovering the real source of their symptoms.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, ulnar nerve, hand numbness, pec minor, brachial plexus, musician health

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

11/30/2025

When TOS Symptoms Are Actually Muscle Spasms

Many individuals search for answers about their chronic pain and assume they have Thoracic Outlet Syndrome. But in my clinical experience, severe muscle spasms can mimic nearly every symptom associated with TOS.

The pectoralis minor and short head biceps often become damaged from overuse, especially during long hours of computer work or heavy phone use. This damage triggers inflammation, which sets off a splinting-guarding reflex across the upper body.

As these contractions intensify, the muscles begin shifting the shoulder downward, narrowing the space near the outlet. This can create numbness, tingling, weakness, and even changes in blood flow.

Understanding this cycle helps individuals recognize why symptoms escalate and why traditional evaluations often miss the root cause.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, pectoralis minor, muscle spasms, inflammation, nerve compression, short head biceps, chronic pain

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

11/30/2025

Why the Subclavius Muscle Matters in TOS

Many individuals with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome are told their symptoms come from only one or two muscles. But the subclavius is often one of the most influential contributors. It can lift the first rib and drop the collarbone at the same time, compressing the outlet from both sides.

In my clinical experience, this muscle is swollen, tender, and highly reactive in the majority of TOS cases. Deep tissue examination frequently reveals significant inflammation.

TOS typically involves three choke points and more than a dozen muscles that can spasm or guard. When inflammation spreads across the upper body, multiple pain patterns appear.

Understanding these mechanisms helps individuals make sense of symptoms that traditional evaluations may overlook.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, subclavius muscle, first rib, scalene muscles, nerve compression, vascular compression, chronic pain

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

11/30/2025

The Vascular Side of TOS You Should Never Ignore

When the collarbone drops and compresses the subclavian vein, it can trigger a dangerous condition known as Schroetter syndrome. This form of vascular Thoracic Outlet Syndrome often begins subtly—color changes, swelling, or coldness in the hand.

Many individuals ignore these symptoms for years because they come and go. But when the vein becomes obstructed, the arm can suddenly swell to the point of extreme tension. This often happens at night and leads to an emergency room visit.

If the clot dislodges, it can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism, a potentially life-threatening situation. Recognizing these warning signs is critical.

Education helps people understand the risks and seek proper evaluation when symptoms appear.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, Schroetter syndrome, vascular compression, subclavian vein, blood clot, pulmonary embolism, vascular TOS

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

11/30/2025

When TOS Is Misdiagnosed for Years

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is one of the most frequently misdiagnosed neurovascular compression conditions because its symptoms overlap with so many unrelated disorders. Patients often bounce from doctor to doctor without answers, while their symptoms intensify.

In my clinical experience, many individuals report episodes of severe hypertension, numbness, circulation issues, and panic—only to be told nothing is wrong. Others are diagnosed with carpal tunnel, regional pain syndrome, or exertional compartment syndrome, yet the treatments never resolve the underlying compression.

Chronic pain can change a person’s mood, energy, and even their relationships. Many patients describe feeling misunderstood or unsupported during their search for answers.

Education is essential. When people finally understand Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, they can begin to make sense of symptoms that once felt random and overwhelming.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, nerve compression, hypertension, carpal tunnel, scalenectomy, exertional compartment syndrome, vascular compression

Learn more at https://teamdoctorsacademy.com/

11/30/2025

Ed Coan, My Father, and a 39-Year Friendship That Built a Legend

I just found a photo that stopped me in my tracks.
A moment frozen in time… 39 years ago.
This picture shows my father, Dr. Paul Stoxen DC, who began practicing chiropractic in 1949, standing with a young Ed Coan in 1986 inside our clinic in Evergreen Park — Stoxen Chiropractic.

It was just a father, a son, and a hungry young athlete with the potential to become the greatest powerlifter of all time.

In 1986, Ed came to me with nagging injuries and a dream:
to keep breaking world records and stay unstoppable.
I treated him with what would later become the Human Spring Approach.
What happened next became part of lifting history.

🏆 Ed Coan’s Championship Reign (The Years We Worked Together)
National Titles

From 1986 to 1991, Ed won EVERY national and world championship he entered.
Five straight perfect years.
World records falling one after another.

🏋️‍♂️ Ed Coan’s Unbelievable Lift Numbers
Across two weight classes, Ed set standards that remain unmatched.

🔥 110 kg Weight Class
Squat (with wraps)
1,019.6 lb (462.5 kg) — 1999 Senior National Championships

Bench Press
573.2 lb (260.0 kg) — 1998 & 1999 World Championships

Deadlift
887.3 lb (402.5 kg) — 1998 World Championships

2,463.6 lb (1,117.5 kg) — 1998 World Championships
This includes:
• Squat: 1,003.1 lb (455.0 kg)
• Bench: 573.2 lb (260.0 kg)
• Deadlift: 887.3 lb (402.5 kg)

One of the greatest totals ever performed at that bodyweight.

🔥 100 kg Weight Class (Single-Ply Equipment)

Squat (with wraps)
964.5 lb (437.5 kg) — 1987 World Championships

Bench Press
562.1 lb (255.0 kg) — 1992 Senior National Championships

Deadlift
901.0 lb (408.7 kg) — 1991 Senior Nationals

Total
2,405.6 lb (1,091.2 kg) — 1991 Senior Nationals

This includes:
• Squat: 959.0 lb (435.0 kg)
• Bench: 545.6 lb (247.5 kg)
• Deadlift: 901.0 lb (408.7 kg)

Even today, these totals are mind-blowing.

USSR - A Journey That Made History
In 1987, Ed and I traveled to the USSR (former Soviet Union) together — competing with the Russian Team in Moscow and Leningrad, back when Russia was still communist.
Two young guys — one lifter, one doctor — training, treating, learning from Soviet sports scientists, and bringing advanced methods back to the U.S.
A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
A chapter in sports history.
A friendship that has lasted 39 years.

❤️ A Legacy of Family, Sports Medicine & Friendship

Our clinic grew from:
• 5 employees to 65 employees
• $200,000 in services to $7,000,000 in services by 1993 to 1997

But what I value most is not the growth or the championships…
It’s the legacy from my father.
It’s the evolution of the Human Spring Approach.
And it’s the friends who walked the journey with me.

This photo reminded me of all of it —
the early days, the breakthroughs, the travel, the world records, the late nights, the treatments, and the pure passion for making athletes unbreakable.
Here’s to the past…
Here’s to the journey…
And here’s to the people who made it unforgettable. ❤️💪

11/28/2025

Understanding the 3 Major Thoracic Outlet Compression Points That Trigger Pain

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ABOUT DR. JAMES STOXEN, DC, FSSEMM (hon)
International Speaker • Inventor • #1 Bestselling Author on Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Developer of the *Human Spring Approach* to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome

GET THE #1 INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLER ON TOS
The Human Spring Approach to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Learn the science, biomechanics, and self-care strategies to relieve TOS.
👉 Available on Amazon

LEARN FROM THE EXPERT WITH VIDEO TUTORIALS
TAKE THE FULL ONLINE COURSE ON THORACIC OUTLET SYNDROME**
The Human Spring Approach to Thoracic Outlet Syndrome – Online Academy**
Step-by-step training to examine, treat, and restore your Human Spring system.
👉 Enroll here: http://www.teamdoctorsacademy.com

👉 Team Doctors Academy (All Online Courses): http://www.teamdoctorsacademy.com

FREE EDUCATION & DAILY TIPS
👉 TOS Education Website: http://www.thoracicoutletsyndrome.com

SELF-MASSAGE YOUR THORACIC OUTLET ANATOMY
Using the Vibeassage Sport & Vibeassage Pro— advanced biomimetic vibration therapy tools:

* Low-amplitude vibration that penetrates deep into tissue without painful force
* Biomimetic applicator pad engineered to mimic the exact metrics of the human hand
* Human-skin texture for natural, calming sensory feedback
* Human-skin elasticity that compresses and rebounds like real soft tissue
* 20× larger contact surface than massage gun heads—helping you finish recovery up to **20× faster**
👉 Find Vibeassage self-massage recovery tools at: http://www.teamdoctors.com

FREE PHONE CONSULT WITH DR. STOXEN
👉 Schedule a free phone consultation: https://drstoxen.com/appointment

FOLLOW DR. STOXEN ON SOCIAL MEDIA
Daily educational content, livestreams, and Q&A:

page: https://www.facebook.com/drstoxen

Facebook Book Page: https://www.facebook.com/thoracicoutletsyndromebook

Facebook Group (TOS Support & Education): https://www.facebook.com/groups/540691992769339

Instagram (Main): https://www.instagram.com/drstoxen

Instagram (Academy): https://www.instagram.com/teamdoctorsacademy

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drstoxen

Twitter / X: https://twitter.com/drstoxen

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/

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Monday	9am - 9pm
Tuesday	9am - 9pm
Wednesday	9am - 9pm
Thursday	9am - 9pm
Friday	9am - 9pm
Saturday	9am - 2pm