Radial Tunnel Syndrome

Patients with radial tunnel syndrome have lateral elbow pain and occasional numbness in the forearm and thumb. Steroid injections can relieve symptoms along with physical therapy. When injections and therapy are not effective, surgery to decompress the tight band from around the radial nerve can provide permanent relief. Nerve stimulation at the time of surgery can help to confirm that the decompression is complete. Without the pressure on the nerve, the muscles respond with firing to extend the fingers.