This condition is thought to be a compression injury to the radial nerve near the elbow. This condition is often confused with tennis elbow.
Causes
This problem is linked to a tight space in your elbow called the “radial tunnel.” Your nerve passes through this tunnel. Inside, it can be squeezed by surrounding tissues. Radial tunnel syndrome can develop if you do a lot of forceful pushing and pulling with your arms. It can be caused by repetitive wrist bends, or by gripping, pinching or twisting motions. It can develop because of a problem with the anatomy of your elbow. And, it can happen because of a sharp blow to your elbow, or because of a tumor.
Symptoms
Symptoms include pain, tenderness and weakness along the top of your forearm just below the elbow. You may feel it in the back of your hand. The pain may feel sharp or achy. It hurts more when you use your arm, especially when you try to straighten your wrist and fingers.
Treatment
The NeuroMedical Center offers a team of experts specializing in radial tunnel syndrome diagnosis and treatment. Treatment options may include medications, a brace or splint, and therapy. If these aren’t helpful, your condition may require surgery. Surgical and non-surgical procedures to relieve radial tunnel syndrome symptoms are performed at The Spine Hospital of Louisiana.
