Radial Tunnel Syndrome Intermediate Exercise Programme

Aim to perform this programme a minimum of once per day unless prescribed otherwise. As with any new exercise, start slowly (repetitions as able) and build up as you are able within the guidelines below.

Pain should not exceed 4/10 whilst completing this exercise programme.

Perform this exercise up to 15 times, rest for 1 minute. Repeat routine 2 to 3 times.

1. Bicep curl

  • Sit or stand with your hand down by your side.
  • With a small weight in hand (household object if you do not have a weight), bend your elbow to bring your hand up to your shoulder.
  • Return to starting position.
Perform this exercise up to 15 times, rest for 1 minute. Repeat routine 2 to 3 times.

2. Wrist extension with weight

  • Sit or stand with your arm straight out in front of you with the palm of your hand facing the floor, holding a small weight.
  • Bend your wrist so the back of your hand moves towards you.
  • Hold this position for 5 seconds.
  • Relax your hand back to starting position.
Perform this exercise up to 10 times, rest for 1 minute. Repeat routine 3 times.

3. Radial nerve glide

  • Start with your hand down by your side, place your thumb across your palm and wrap your fingers over your thumb. Then bent the wrist forward.
  • Now fully twist your shoulder inwards so that if your thumb was sticking out it would point behind you.
  • Lift your shoulder out to the side until you feel symptoms.
  • Hold for 2-5 seconds and then return to the start position by reversing the movements.

We recommend consulting a musculoskeletal physiotherapist to ensure exercises are best suited to your recovery. If you are carrying out an exercise regime without consulting a healthcare professional, you do so at your own risk. If you have any concerns whilst completing these exercises, please contact a healthcare professional.

More Plans

Early Exercise plan

The basic programme is the earliest stage of rehabilitation and so it serves as an introduction to exercise and movement. It is designed to maintain the flexibility of the soft tissues of the forearm and wrist, as well as to increase the mobility of the radial nerve through nerve gliding exercises.

No pain
  • 0
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 910
Safe to exercise
Worst pain imaginable
Advanced Exercise plan

Finally, the advanced programme is the last progression, and it is tailored towards those who require a higher level of function. It comprises of more challenging and complex exercises which will load the affected structures in the forearm and wrist more to build muscle strength and improve resilience.

No pain
  • 0
  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8
  • 910
Safe to exercise
Worst pain imaginable