Understanding the condition
The radial tunnel is a passage around the upper forearm through which a branch of the radial nerve runs. Radial tunnel syndrome usually describes a pain-dominant problem. It is distinct from posterior interosseous nerve palsy, which causes objective weakness of finger or thumb extension.
What might you notice?
- A deep ache below the outer side of the elbow.
- Pain with lifting, gripping or rotating the forearm.
- Tenderness in the upper forearm that may overlap with other elbow conditions.
These symptoms can have more than one cause. A clinical assessment is needed to establish the diagnosis.
Specialist assessment
Assessment maps the site of tenderness and examines the neck, elbow and hand. Nerve tests may be normal in a pain-dominant presentation; imaging or neurophysiology is selected according to the findings. No single examination manoeuvre establishes the diagnosis in isolation.
Your treatment options
Activity modification, therapy and symptom management are usually considered first. Decompression may be discussed when symptoms remain disabling and the clinical assessment supports nerve compression. Persistent pain can have several contributors, so the limitations of surgery are discussed carefully.
Common questions
Is this the same as tennis elbow?
No, although symptoms can overlap and the conditions may coexist. The site of pain and a detailed examination help guide the diagnosis.
Does a normal nerve test rule it out?
Not necessarily. Results are interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination and possible alternative causes.
General patient information from London Nerve Injury. Decisions about investigations and treatment require an individual clinical assessment.