Radial Tunnel Syndrome

Radial tunnel syndrome is a nerve entrapment disorder in the arm that can cause pain and weakness of wrist extension. The radial nerve originates in the neck and travels along the outer part of the arm. Radial tunnel syndrome involves compression of the radial nerve from inflamed tissues. This disorder often occurs in combination with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and is often misdiagnosed and under-treated.

 

Symptoms

Symptoms include sharp or aching pain along the outside of the forearm that radiates up to the neck or down to the wrist. Pain with gripping objects and inability to lift objects with the palm facing down.

 

Treatment

Treatment involves avoiding activities that worsen symptoms in combination with ice and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain. A steroid injection is usually required to eliminate symptoms. If lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) is also present, it should also be treated because it may cause or worsen radial tunnel syndrome. Surgery is rarely indicated for refractory cases.