Radial Nerve Compression occurs when the radial nerve — which runs along the back of the upper arm and forearm — becomes irritated or trapped. This nerve controls wrist and finger extension, as well as sensation over parts of the hand.
Compression can cause pain, numbness, or weakness that interferes with gripping, lifting, or even extending your wrist.
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we diagnose and treat nerve compression injuries using advanced orthopedic and rehabilitative techniques to help patients throughout Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas restore strength, coordination, and hand function.
The radial nerve can be compressed at several sites, including near the elbow, forearm, or wrist. The most common site is the radial tunnel, a narrow pathway near the outer elbow.
Common causes include:
- Repetitive gripping, twisting, or pushing motions
- Direct trauma to the upper or lower arm
- Muscle overuse or tightness, especially of the forearm extensors
- Bone fractures or scar tissue formation
- Prolonged leaning on the elbow or resting the arm awkwardly
- Nerve entrapment following previous injury or surgery
In athletes and manual laborers, chronic strain can cause progressive irritation, while sudden injuries may lead to acute nerve entrapment.
The hallmark signs of radial nerve compression include:
- Dull, aching pain along the outer forearm or back of the hand
- Weakness in wrist or finger extension (wrist drop” in severe cases)
- Numbness or tingling in the back of the thumb or hand
- Fatigue or loss of coordination when gripping or lifting
- Pain that worsens with repetitive movement or prolonged pressure
Symptoms can resemble tennis elbow or carpal tunnel syndrome, making expert evaluation essential.
Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon, uses clinical evaluation and diagnostic testing to confirm nerve involvement and rule out overlapping conditions.
Diagnostic steps include:
- Physical examination: Evaluating sensation, strength, and reflexes.
- Palpation: Identifying tenderness or compression points along the nerve pathway.
- Nerve conduction studies (NCS): Measuring the speed of electrical signals.
- Electromyography (EMG): Assessing muscle response to nerve stimulation.
- Imaging (MRI or ultrasound): Detecting soft-tissue or bone abnormalities that compress the nerve.
Accurate localization of compression ensures targeted, effective treatment.
Most cases of radial nerve compression can be treated conservatively, especially when diagnosed early.
Non-surgical options include:
- Activity modification: Avoiding repetitive wrist or arm motions.
- Anti-inflammatory medication: To reduce swelling around the nerve.
- Splinting or bracing: Keeps the wrist in a neutral position to reduce tension.
- Ergonomic coaching: Adjusting work or athletic technique to relieve nerve stress.
- Focused on nerve-gliding exercises, stretching, and strengthening.
- May aid in reducing chronic inflammation.
Surgical Treatments
If conservative care fails or if nerve compression causes progressive weakness, Dr. Burke may recommend radial nerve decompression surgery.
This minimally invasive procedure releases the constricting tissue or fascia around the nerve to restore proper signal transmission and relieve pain.
Recovery and Prevention
Recovery timeline:
- Non-surgical treatment: 4–6 weeks for improvement
- Surgical recovery: 8–12 weeks, with full function returning after therapy
Prevention strategies:
- Stretch forearm muscles regularly.
- Avoid prolonged pressure on elbows or forearms.
- Warm up before physical activity.
- Maintain balanced muscle strength in arms and shoulders.
Adhering to ergonomic and conditioning practices minimizes recurrence and supports long-term nerve health.
Call Dr. Burke Orthopedics if you notice:
- Persistent numbness, tingling, or weakness in the hand
- Difficulty extending the wrist or fingers
- Pain that interferes with daily tasks or work activities
Prompt diagnosis helps prevent irreversible nerve damage and restores normal hand coordination.
Serving Our Community
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we proudly serve patients across Pearland, Houston, Friendswood, and Southeast Texas, offering full-spectrum orthopedic and nerve-care services — from diagnostics to recovery.
Our approach combines surgical expertise, regenerative medicine, and rehabilitation for long-term results you can trust.
