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Elbow Pain? Meet Atlanta’s Upper Extremity Specialist

Radial Tunnel Syndrome

Radial tunnel syndrome is a condition involving the radial nerve in your elbow. The radial nerve passes down your arm to your hand. Its branches travel into your thumb, forefinger and middle finger. Radial tunnel syndrome can occur when your radial nerve is compressed, stretched or irritated, causing pain, numbness, or irritation throughout your forearm.

If you’re struggling with radial tunnel syndrome, The Physicians can help you find relief. As the leading pain management doctors in Georgia, we offer a variety of non-surgical and surgical treatments for radial tunnel syndrome, from injections to nerve decompression surgery. We will work with you to find the right treatment for your pain, and help you get back to your life.

The Physicians are passionate about providing the most conservative, most effective treatment possible. We will work with you to find the root cause of your elbow pain and create a custom treatment plan to address your specific needs. Don’t wait to seek radial tunnel syndrome treatment. Contact The Physicians today to schedule a consultation.

Cutting-Edge Treatments for Elbow Pain

Treatment & Diagnosis of Radial Tunnel Syndrome

As we've discussed, radial tunnel syndrome occurs when the radial nerve becomes compressed. This can happen due to a number of reasons, including repetitive motion (such as from tennis or golf), an injury, or arthritis. In order to diagnose radial tunnel syndrome, your physician will likely start with a physical examination. They will ask you about your symptoms and medical history. They will also move your arm and elbow in different ways to see if this causes pain.

If your physician suspects you have radial tunnel syndrome, they may order additional tests, such as an MRI or nerve conduction study. These tests can provide more information about the source of your pain and help to confirm the diagnosis.

Once radial tunnel syndrome is diagnosed, treatment can begin. The goal of treatment is to reduce the pressure on the radial nerve and relieve your pain. Non-surgical treatment options include:

  • Resting the affected arm
  • Applying ice or heat
  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers
  • Wearing a splint or elbow brace
  • Physical therapy
  • Injections

Your physician will work with you to create a treatment plan that meets your needs. In some cases, radial tunnel syndrome will go away on its own with time and conservative treatment. However, if your pain is severe or does not improve with other treatments, surgery may be necessary.

At The Physicians, we offer a variety of minimally-invasive surgical options for radial tunnel syndrome, including:

  • Nerve decompression surgery: During this procedure, the surgeon will release the pressure on the radial nerve by cutting through the tissues that are pressing on it.
  • Arthroscopic release: This minimally invasive procedure involves making small incisions in the elbow and using a camera to guide the surgeon as they release the pressure on the radial nerve.

If you’re struggling with radial tunnel syndrome, reach out to The Physicians today. We will work with you to find the best radial tunnel syndrome treatment for your needs and help you get back to your life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some common symptoms of radial tunnel syndrome?

Radial tunnel syndrome often causes a dull, aching pain on the outside of the elbow. The pain may radiate down the forearm and into the hand. You may also experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in the affected arm.

Who is most at risk for developing radial tunnel syndrome?

Anyone can develop radial tunnel syndrome. However, it is more common in people who participate in activities that involve repetitive motion of the elbow, such as tennis or golf. People with arthritis are also at an increased risk.

Do you accept insurance for radial tunnel syndrome treatment?

Yes! The Physicians believe that cutting-edge care for chronic pain should be accessible to everyone who needs it, and we’re proud to accept insurance from providers across the Atlanta area.

Visit our Insurance page to see our list of accepted providers.

How can I get started with the best elbow specialist near me?

If you’re ready to find relief from symptoms of radial tunnel syndrome, The Physicians Spine & Rehabilitation Specialists are here to consult with you, answer your questions, and get you started on the road to pain relief. Schedule your appointment today using our easy online tool.