Hand & nerve

Radial tunnel syndrome

Radial nerve irritation in the forearm, often mistaken for tennis elbow.

What it is

The radial nerve can be compressed just below the elbow, producing an aching pain in the upper forearm. Because it sits close to the tennis elbow point, it is frequently misdiagnosed.

How it usually presents

  • Aching pain a few centimetres below the outer elbow
  • Pain with repetitive twisting of the forearm
  • Tennis elbow treatment that has not helped

How it is assessed

Careful examination to localise the tender point, with nerve studies and imaging where required.

Treatment options

  • Activity modification and physiotherapy
  • Diagnostic injection
  • Surgical decompression in resistant cases

Non-surgical treatment is considered first wherever it is reasonable. Which option suits you depends on your symptoms, your goals and what you want from treatment, which is exactly what we discuss in clinic.

Back to all conditions

Come and have it assessed properly

If this page sounds familiar, an appointment gives us the chance to confirm the diagnosis and go through your options together.

Request an appointment