Radial Tunnel Syndrome

Radial tunnel syndrome is a condition characterized by pain and discomfort in your forearm and elbow caused by compression of the radial nerve. This nerve runs down the length of your arm and into the hand, controlling movement and sensation in the triceps and extending into the wrist and fingers.

At Kimball Health Services, our board-certified orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Jeffery MacMillan, provides comprehensive care for radial tunnel syndrome, beginning with non-surgical options such as personalized physical therapy, ergonomic recommendations, and pain management. When conservative treatments are insufficient, surgery may be recommended to relieve pressure on the radial nerve. 

The radial nerve, one of the three primary nerves in the forearm, extends from the side of the neck, travels down the back of the arm, and moves through the forearm to the hand. It plays a crucial role in various arm movements, including forearm rotation, elbow extension, and wrist and finger motion. As the nerve reaches the elbow, it passes through the radial tunnel, a space surrounded by muscle.

Radial tunnel syndrome occurs when the radial nerve is compressed or pinched as it enters this tunnel, leading to unwanted pressure and persistent pain. 

Radial tunnel syndrome is most frequently seen in people between the ages of 30 and 50, with women being significantly more affected than men. Risk factors of radial tunnel syndrome include:

• Poor strength and flexibility in the arm and wrist
• Inadequate warm-up before sports
• Diabetes
• An underactive thyroid gland
• Tumors or ganglion cysts in the arm
• Swelling or fluid accumulation in the arm
• Inflammation of the radial nerve

Symptoms of radial tunnel syndrome may include:

• Pain on the back of the hand
• Pain located just below the elbow
• Pain that worsens with wrist rotation
• Pain that intensifies with finger extension
• Tenderness on the outer elbow
• Difficulty gripping objects
• Trouble lifting or pushing items
• Difficulty extending the wrist
• Muscle fatigue in the forearm

The pain resulting from radial tunnel syndrome may also intensify during sleep. In severe cases, the condition can cause wrist drop, where you lose the ability to lift your hand beyond a certain point.

Since tennis elbow shares similar symptoms, it's crucial to provide specific details to your doctor. 

As your radial nerve passes through the radial tunnel below your elbow, it navigates between various tissue fibers that enclose, separate, or bind muscles, organs, and other soft structures in your body. 

When the radial tunnel and its surrounding structures become inflamed, excessive pressure is exerted on the nerve, resulting in radial tunnel syndrome. The radial nerve can get compressed due to various reasons, such as:

• Repetitive Motion: Activities involving repetitive forearm and wrist movements, such as typing or playing certain sports, can lead to radial tunnel syndrome
• Injury: Trauma or injury to the arm that results in swelling or inflammation can compress the radial nerve
• Structural Issues: Abnormalities in the bone or muscle structure that create pressure on the nerve

To diagnose radial tunnel syndrome, our providers perform a physical examination and assessment of symptoms. He may also tap over the radial tunnel to elicit tingling or pain, indicating nerve irritation. 

They may ask for the following tests to rule out other potential injuries or conditions:

• Electromyography (EMG): It measures the electrical activity of muscles and nerves to identify any dysfunction.
• Imaging Tests: X-rays or MRI scans may be used to rule out other conditions, such as fractures or arthritis.

The most effective way to treat radial tunnel syndrome is to stop or significantly reduce activities that trigger symptoms. Rest and medical treatment usually alleviate symptoms within three to six weeks for most patients. 

 If pain persists, the following non-surgical treatments may be recommended:

• Physical Therapy: Exercises can help strengthen and stretch the forearm muscles, improving flexibility and reducing nerve pressure
• Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help alleviate pain and swelling
• Bracing: A brace or splint immobilizes the wrist and reduces strain on the radial nerve

To prevent radial tunnel syndrome, it is important to:

• Practice Good Ergonomics: Make sure your workspace is set up to minimize strain on the forearm and wrist
• Take Breaks: Incorporate regular breaks during repetitive activities to allow muscles and tendons to rest
• Strengthening Exercises: Perform exercises to maintain flexibility and strength in your forearm and wrist muscles
• Use Proper Techniques: Adopt correct techniques and postures during sports or activities to avoid overuse injuries

At Kimball Health Services, our team is dedicated to helping you regain your quality of life. We provide thorough care to manage your radial tunnel syndrome through detailed diagnosis and tailored treatment plans.

As one of the top critical access hospitals in the nation, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. 

In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. For appointments, call us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online. We're here for you whenever you need us.