Are you talking about radial nerve compression (I am fairly sure you are)?

Compression of the radial nerve is in fact possible during weight lifting though it is unlikely as many others have said as this type of nerve compression is usually caused by prolonged pressure (e.g sleeping, biking, etc) to the nerve. As many have mentioned, tennis elbow is also another possibility of what you may be experiencing.


It is odd that your doctor would hastily recommend surgery without trying any alternative options. Usually in cases of radial nerve compression or other types of mononeuropathies, other alternatives are tried before turning to surgery (usually around 3 months before suggesting surgery). The only case I can think of is if your doctor believes it is beyond repair of regular treatment.
What type of tests did your doctor do to confirm his/her diagnosis? Did he do any electrodiagnostic tests to confirm and test severity?

A common symptom of R.N.C is weakness in the wrist and extensor muscles of the fingers (try moving your fingers back and forth).

I hope this helps.

*I am not a doctor, I am just speaking from my experience and knowledge*