Radial Tunnel Syndrome

The sickness construct known as "radial tunnel syndrome" is predicated on the potential pathophysiology of radial nerve compression in the proximal forearm. Similarities to idiopathic ulnar nerve dysfunction at the cubital tunnel (cubital tunnel syndrome) and idiopathic median nerve dysfunction at the carpal tunnel (carpal tunnel syndrome) support the concept of this illness, but it is debatable because, in contrast to those two conditions, there is no known pathophysiology.

The symptoms of radial tunnel syndrome include soreness in the supinator muscle a few centimeters distal to the lateral epicondyle and aching pain in the proximal radial portion of the forearm. Additional symptoms that may indicate radial nerve entrapment include discomfort when the middle finger is resisted or when the extended elbow is supinated against resistance.

It is well acknowledged that radial tunnel syndrome is a clinical diagnosis and that there is no objective test to confirm or deny this diagnosis. In particular, electrophysiological testing are usually in the normal range.

RISK FACTOR:

Repeating Motions: Radial tunnel syndrome can become more likely in those who do repetitive wrist and forearm motions, such as individuals who play sports or work in specific occupations.

Overindulgence or Stress: Radial tunnel syndrome can arise as a result of overusing the forearm muscles, particularly while engaging in gripping, lifting, or repetitive pronation and supination of the forearm.

Factors Related to Work: labour jobs that require extended or repetitive use of the forearm, such typing, vibrating tool use, or assembly line labour, may put workers at danger.

Exercise and Athletics: Tennis players, weightlifters, and other athletes who engage in repetitive gripping exercises or other sports that put strain on the forearm may be more vulnerable.

Injury or Trauma: Radial tunnel syndrome may develop as a result of a direct trauma or injury to the forearm, such as a fracture or dislocation.

Inflammatory conditions: Radial tunnel syndrome risk may be raised by diseases like rheumatoid arthritis that induce inflammation in the forearm.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Pain & tenderness in the area on the outside of elbow.
• Pain during stretching down the forearm.
• Pain is nagging ache.
• This pain may cause fatigue.
• Overtime, it weaken of the supinator muscles & overall wrist strength (flexor group of muscle.
• Difficulty in gripping due to weaken supinator or flexor group of muscle

Treatment:

Rest and Adjusting One's Activities: Reducing inflammation and promoting nerve healing can be achieved by resting the afflicted arm and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.

Anti-inflammatory drugs: Ibuprofen is one example of a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID) that may be used to treat pain and inflammation.

Steroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids into the afflicted area can aid in symptom relief and inflammation reduction. However, because of the possible negative effects, these injections are usually used sparingly.

The Surgical Intervention: Surgical release of the radial tunnel may be undertaken if conservative treatments are ineffective or if a structural problem (such as a fibrous band) is clearly causing compression. In order to do this, the structures constricting the nerve must be severed.

In what ways does Aspire handle radial tunnel syndrome?

Physical therapy is what we do at Aspire.

• Rest: Stop or reduce the activity that causes your symptoms.
• Splinting or bracing:  Reducing pressure on the radial nerve by maintaining the wrist and forearm in a neutral position can be achieved by wearing a brace or splint.
• Forearm muscles should be stretched and strengthened. Certain activities can lessen radial nerve compression and increase flexibility.
• Modification of Activity: It may be helpful to alter work or leisure activities to reduce forceful or repetitive motions that exacerbate symptoms.
• Changes in the Workplace and Ergonomics: Using appropriate hand and wrist placement, among other ergonomic workplace modifications, can help stop the symptoms from returning.
• Radial nerve glides.
• Soft-tissue massage.
• Learning: Treatment may include teaching the patient about good hand and wrist posture, ergonomics, and overuse prevention techniques.

By Dr.Ayush Ranjan (Physiotherapist)