Radial nerve glide
Radial nerve gliding sequence
Goal
Restores radial nerve mobility along its course.
Motion taxonomy (reference)
Also called: radial nerve sliders
Muscles — finger extensors, forearm extensors, wrist extensors
Tendons — extensor compartment tendons
Bones / joints — elbow, hand nerve pathway, neck, shoulder, wrist
Indexed benefits: improves radial nerve mobility · may reduce neural tension symptoms · supports upper limb nerve rehab
Common contexts: nerve mobility work · radial tunnel-style symptoms · specialist-guided rehab
Best for
- Radial tunnel-style symptoms (with clearance)
Default dose
5 reps • 1×/day
Avoid when
- Acute radial nerve injury without clearance
Measurement targets
- Symptom score change
Setup
- Stand with the arm relaxed at the side.
Steps
- 1Internally rotate shoulder, depress slightly.
- 2Extend elbow.
- 3Flex wrist and tuck thumb gently.
- 4Tip head away briefly, only as tolerated.
Cues
- Move slowly through the chain; very small motions.
Common mistakes
- Combining all components forcefully.
Stop if you feel
Stop rules
- Sharp pain (≥ 4/10)
- Increasing swelling during or after
- New or worsening numbness or tingling
- Color change in fingers (pale, blue, red)
- Wound opens, drains, or feels hot
- Next morning is worse than the day before
- Sharp shooting pain anywhere along the arm
Progressions
- Add brief 1–2 sec end-range pauses.
Regressions
- Use only the first 2 components.
What to do next — not a dead end
Suggestions use body region, goal, motion type, and allowed phases — not your medical record. After surgery or a flare, follow your clinician first.
~2–5 min as a focused practice block
5 reps · 1×/day
None required — table or bodyweight only.
Phases 3
Higher load or coordination — scale range and speed.
Next best movements
Later phase or richer progression when you are ready.
Prerequisite / gentler lane
Same region and intent — usually earlier phase or lower risk.
Related movements
Similar mechanics, goals, or anatomy.
Keep momentum without overdoing it
Log a short check-in to protect your streak — even one quality set counts.