![]() A simple stretch in which the arm is extended down the length of the body, the wrist is rotated outwards, and the fingertips are placed against the thighs (palm down) will stretch out the nerve and the muscles around it. Some suggest that muscle tightness can increase pressure upon the affected nerve. However, one of the best solutions to the problem is using exercises which will not only alleviate the problem in the short term, but defend against it in the long term. Managing or eradicating the patient’s diabetes will improve the situation in the affected arm. Diabetes, for example, is sometimes a contributory factor in the condition. If there are other underlying conditions associated with the syndrome, eliminating or managing these will help a great deal with the radial tunnel issues. If the nerve is seriously inflamed, your doctor may decide to give you steroid injections in order to combat this. However, the healing process can be helped along through the use of things like splints to reduce the strain on the nerve. The condition is more irritating than dangerous, and often sorts itself out over time. However, if you feel that you can manage the condition without taking strong painkillers, it is always better for your health to do so. What Can Be Done About It?ĭoctors may prescribe painkillers and anti-inflammatories to deal with the immediate symptoms of the condition. There may also be a degree of unexpected weakness in the affected arm and hand, which (again) becomes most evident when straightening the wrist and fingers (Radial Tunnel Syndrome Test). When the fingers or the wrist are straightened, the pain may become piercing, or ‘stabbing’. However, this can spread right down the forearm, and into the back of the hand or the wrist. Usually, this syndrome causes a persistent dull ache at the top of the forearm, around and just below the elbow. What Are The Symptoms Of Radial Tunnel Syndrome? ![]() Diabetes is also known to contribute to Radial Tunnel Syndrome in some cases. The nerve can also be compressed by swellings in the arm, such as may be caused by obesity, ganglion cysts, or inflammation. People at risk of developing the condition include those who frequently twist their wrists and forearms (those who play racquet sports, for example), and those who spend long hours leaning on their elbows and forearms. Consistent pinching of the nerve can cause the syndrome to occur. The radial nerve, which runs down the length of the forearm, can be pinched at any point, but this happens most commonly at the ‘tunnel’ through which it runs at your elbow. Radial Tunnel Syndrome is caused by compression of the radial nerve. Isolated neuropathy of the superficial radial nerve can be caused by entrapment and is known as Wartenberg’s syndrome, whereas external compression of the same sensory branch is known as wristwatch neuropathy or bracelet neuropathy. Tennis elbow straps may increase symptoms because of increased pressure compression over the radial tunnel. The radial nerve may become entrapped in this tunnel, resulting in persistent pain around the lateral epicondyle and an aching sensation in the extensor and/or supinator muscle mass distal to the lateral epicondyle. The radial tunnel is about 2 inches in length, extending proximally from the capitellum of the humerus, between the brachioradialis and brachialis, and distally through the supinator muscle. Why is it confused with lateral epicondylitis? ![]() It is found most commonly in women aged between 30 and 50, but can affect anyone if the right conditions are met. ![]() The condition causes pain - sometimes intense - and a weak sensation in the arms, radiating out into the hands. While Carpal Tunnel Syndrome affects the median nerve in the wrist, Radial Tunnel Syndrome affects the radial nerve which runs down the forearm from the elbow. It is often confused with its better-known relative, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, but the two are distinct enough to warrant differing diagnoses. Radial Tunnel Syndrome also known as Supinator Syndrome is a condition which affects the forearms and elbows. Post written by Anne Cave, United Kingdom
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