Radial tunnel syndrome is a condition in which a nerve in the
forearm is squeezed, narrowed, or flattened (compressed), causing elbow pain
and weakness of the wrist or hand. But unlike other nerve problems
affecting the hand, radial tunnel syndrome does not cause a loss of sensation,
such as numbness or tingling.
Repetitive activity and injury are the most common causes of radial
tunnel syndrome. It is sometimes misdiagnosed as tennis elbow, because both
conditions cause pain on the outside (lateral) part of the elbow.
Treatment for this nerve entrapment syndrome includes rest,
stretching, anti-inflammatory medicines, and sometimes surgery.
Radial tunnel syndrome is also called posterior interosseous nerve
syndrome.
Last Revised:
January 21, 2011
Author:
Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & David Bardana, MD, FRCSC - Orthopedic Surgery, Sports Medicine