What is Radial Tunnel Syndrome?

What Causes Radial Tunnel Syndrome?

The deep radial nerve can be compressed near the edge of the supinator muscle or beneath fibrous bands as it passes from the outer elbow into the forearm. Screwdriver work, forceful gripping and repeated wrist motion increase tension. Prior trauma or a mass can narrow the tunnel.

Symptoms

• Deep pain spreading from the outer elbow into the forearm
• Ache toward the middle-finger side
• Symptoms aggravated by forearm rotation and gripping
• Reduced wrist-lifting strength in prolonged cases

Frequently Asked Questions

Is radial tunnel syndrome the same as tennis elbow?

Both can hurt the outer elbow, but different tissues are involved. Radial tunnel syndrome produces nerve-area tenderness and pain into the forearm. Examination, and when needed EMG or imaging, separates the conditions; load modification and therapy are initial options.