Radial Tunnel Syndrome
Reviewed by Dr. Vipul Patel
Radial Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens and Englewood, NJ
Aching pain on the outer forearm just below the elbow is often blamed on tennis elbow. In some patients, though, the cause is compression of the radial nerve, a condition called radial tunnel syndrome. Telling the two apart helps guide the right treatment.
We evaluate forearm and elbow pain at our offices on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, in Park Slope, Brooklyn, in Elmhurst, Queens, and in Englewood, NJ.
What Is Radial Tunnel Syndrome?
The radial nerve travels past the elbow through a narrow passage called the radial tunnel, where a branch known as the posterior interosseous nerve can be pinched by muscle edges, bands of tissue or blood vessels. Repetitive pushing, pulling, gripping or twisting of the forearm may contribute.
How It Differs From Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow involves the tendon attachment at the bony point of the outer elbow. Radial tunnel pain is usually felt a few centimeters farther down the forearm. The two conditions can occur together.
Symptoms
- Aching or cutting pain on the top of the forearm below the elbow
- Pain that worsens with twisting or straightening the wrist and fingers against resistance
- Fatigue or a sense of weakness in the forearm
- Pain that may radiate toward the back of the hand
Radial tunnel syndrome typically causes pain rather than numbness or true muscle weakness.
How Radial Tunnel Syndrome Is Diagnosed
Diagnosis relies largely on a careful examination that locates the point of tenderness and tests specific movements. A nerve study may be ordered, though results are often normal in this condition. Imaging can help rule out other causes.
Nonsurgical Options to Try First
- Rest and modification of aggravating activities
- A wrist splint to limit forearm muscle strain
- Anti-inflammatory medication, if appropriate
- Therapy focused on nerve gliding and stretching
- An injection near the nerve, in selected cases
When Surgery May Be Recommended
Surgery may be considered when symptoms continue for several months despite nonsurgical care and the diagnosis is well supported.
Surgical Options That May Be Considered
Radial tunnel release divides the bands of tissue compressing the nerve to give it more room. The surgeon can explain the approach and incision location planned for you.
Recovery
After release, the arm may be protected briefly, followed by gradual return of motion and strengthening. Improvement in pain can take several months.
Why Choose Dr. Patel for Radial Tunnel Syndrome?
Dr. Vipul Patel, MD, FAAOS, is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon described on our site as a hand, upper extremity and nerve surgeon, with a practice that includes nerve compression syndromes. He completed fellowship training at Harvard/Massachusetts General Hospital.
Radial Tunnel Syndrome FAQs
Why was my nerve test normal?
Radial tunnel syndrome often does not show clear changes on nerve studies, because it typically causes pain rather than nerve damage. Diagnosis relies mostly on the examination and your symptoms.
Can radial tunnel syndrome go away on its own?
Many patients improve with rest, splinting and activity changes. Symptoms that persist for months despite these steps may warrant further evaluation and discussion of other options.
Is it the same as posterior interosseous nerve syndrome?
They involve the same nerve. Posterior interosseous nerve syndrome usually causes weakness of finger and thumb straightening, while radial tunnel syndrome mainly causes pain.
Request an Appointment
If forearm pain is not improving, request an appointment at our Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens or Englewood, NJ office to discuss your radial tunnel syndrome treatment options.
