Causes of Radial Nerve Pain
Common reasons the radial nerve becomes irritated include:
- Trauma or injury: Fractures of the upper arm, elbow, or wrist, or deep cuts that directly injure the nerve
- Compression: Prolonged pressure on the nerve, such as from sleeping in an awkward position, wearing a tight cast, or incorrect crutch use
- Repetitive movements: Repeated twisting or gripping actions that strain the nerve (as in radial tunnel syndrome)
- Medical conditions: Diabetes, infections, or inflammation that affect nerve health
Symptoms to Watch For
Radial nerve problems can cause:
- Pain: Sharp, burning, or throbbing pain along the back of the arm, forearm, or hand
- Numbness or tingling: “Pins-and-needles” sensations in the hand and fingers
- Weakness: Trouble lifting or extending the wrist or fingers
- Loss of function: Reduced grip strength and difficulty performing daily tasks
Early evaluation and care can prevent long-term nerve damage.
How Radial Nerve Pain Is Diagnosed
A pain specialist will review your medical history, perform a physical exam, and may recommend:
- Nerve conduction studies (NCS): Measure how well electrical signals travel through the nerve
- Electromyography (EMG): Tests electrical activity in muscles controlled by the radial nerve
- Imaging (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound): Detect fractures, swelling, or masses pressing on the nerve
Evidence-Based Treatment Options
The goal is to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and support nerve healing.
- Rest and activity modification: Avoid movements that aggravate symptoms
- Medications: Over-the-counter NSAIDs or acetaminophen; prescription pain relievers or muscle relaxants if needed
- Splinting or bracing: Keeps the wrist and hand in a neutral position to reduce pressure
- Physical therapy: Exercises to stretch and strengthen muscles, restore flexibility, and protect the nerve
- Corticosteroid injections: Reduce inflammation when conservative care isn’t enough
- Surgery: Reserved for severe or persistent cases to release pressure or repair damaged tissue
For chronic or complex pain that doesn’t improve with conservative measures, your care team might suggest advanced options such as Peripheral Nerve Stimulation or selected Nerve Blocks to calm overactive pain signals.
Recovery and Prognosis
Most people recover within weeks to months depending on the cause and severity. Consistent physical therapy and follow-up care improve the chances of full recovery. Severe or untreated injuries may lead to long-term weakness or loss of function.
When to See a Specialist
Contact a pain or nerve specialist if you notice persistent pain, numbness, or weakness, or if symptoms worsen despite rest. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and speed recovery.
Take the Next Step
Radial nerve pain can disrupt daily life, but with timely care and the right treatment plan, most patients regain comfort and normal arm function. Schedule a consultation with Maywell Health’s pain specialists to receive a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan.
Procedure Videos
Peripheral nerve stimulation
References
- “Radial Nerve Dysfunction.” MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000790.htm. Updated April 2, 2023. Accessed July 19, 2024.
- “Radial Nerve.” Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21617-radial-nerve. Accessed July 20, 2024.
- “Radial Tunnel Syndrome.” Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15658-radial-tunnel-syndrome. Accessed July 23, 2024.
- “Peripheral nerve injuries.” Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/peripheral-nerve-injuries/symptoms-causes/syc-20355631. Accessed July 24, 2024.
- Naam, N. H., & Nemani, S. (2012). Radial tunnel syndrome. The Orthopedic clinics of North America, 43(4), 529–536. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ocl.2012.07.022
- Agarwal, A., Chandra, A., Jaipal, U. et al. A panorama of radial nerve pathologies- an imaging diagnosis: a step ahead. Insights Imaging 9, 1021–1034 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s13244-018-0662-x
