What is a major source of pain in brachial plexus patients due to subluxation?

In brachial plexus patients, the presence of nerve traction is a significant source of pain related to subluxation. When the shoulder joint becomes subluxed, the resultant movement can place tension and stretch on the brachial plexus nerves that exit the spinal cord at cervical levels C5-T1. This traction can lead to neuropathic pain due to irritation or injury of the nerve fibers, which is often more pronounced in cases of shoulder instability or improper positioning of the arm.

Nerve traction specifically contributes to pain because it disrupts the normal function of the nerve, resulting in a range of sensations, from chronic pain to tingling and numbness. As subluxation occurs, the brachial plexus, which is responsible for motor and sensory nerve supply to the upper limb, becomes more susceptible to mechanical strain. This can significantly affect the patient's quality of life, particularly in terms of mobility and arm function.

While joint instability, muscle spasm, and soft tissue damage may also result in discomfort or pain, they do not directly implicate the unique neurological pain that arises from nerve traction specifically associated with brachial plexus injuries. Understanding this relationship is essential for effectively managing brachial plexus patients and addressing their pain