Which of the following is NOT a symptom of radial tunnel syndrome?

• A. Poorly localized pain
• B. Motor loss pattern
• C. Sensory loss in radial distribution
• D. Pain over lateral humerus

Answer: (B)

Radial tunnel syndrome primarily affects the radial nerve as it passes through the radial tunnel near the elbow, leading to specific symptoms. Typically, this condition is characterized by poorly localized pain that may extend from the lateral aspect of the elbow down the forearm and into the wrist. A hallmark of radial tunnel syndrome is the presence of pain without significant weakness, distinguishing it from other nerve conditions.

Motor loss is usually not a prominent feature because the radial tunnel syndrome is characterized more by the aching pain and discomfort rather than an outright loss of motor function. While motor involvement can occur in related conditions such as radial nerve palsy, it is not a defining symptom of radial tunnel syndrome specifically. The irritation in radial tunnel syndrome doesn't lead to the distal weakness typically associated with a clear motor loss pattern.

Sensory loss in the radial distribution can occur if the radial nerve is compromised; however, in radial tunnel syndrome, sensory changes are less common, and the pain experienced is not usually accompanied by sensory deficits. Pain over the lateral humerus can reflect issues in this area due to the location of the radial nerve. Therefore, while the first three options relate to the symptoms associated directly with radial tunnel syndrome, the absence of a clear motor loss pattern makes it the correct response