CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Commonly know as your "funny bone", your ulnar nerve is vulnerable to pressure and strain.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition characterized by compression or stretching of the ulnar nerve, which is situated in a groove on the inner elbow.

This condition can lead to numbness, tingling, or weakness in the ring and small fingers, forearm pain, and diminished hand strength.

CAUSES OF CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

DIRECT PRESSURE

Insufficient padding over the nerve makes it susceptible to compression when leaning on the arm, causing numbness in the ring and small fingers.

PROLONGED ELBOW BENDING

ANATOMICAL VARIATIONS

In some cases, the nerve may not remain in its designated pathway, leading to repeated snapping over a bony prominence when the elbow is moved. Additionally, thickened soft tissues or an extra muscle over the nerve can impede its function.

Several factors contribute to this condition:

Stretching the nerve behind the elbow, often during sleep, can irritate the ulnar nerve.

RECOGNIZING THE SIGNS
OF CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can manifest as:

PAIN

These symptoms frequently occur when the elbow is bent for extended periods, such as during phone use or during sleep. The ring and small fingers are typically affected.

LOSS OF SENSATION

TINGLING SENSATIONS
(OFTEN DESCRIBED AS "PINS AND NEEDLES")

WEAKNESS, POTENTIALLY LEADING TO CLUMSINESS

If you are suffering from these symptoms, schedule an appointment with us today.

CONTACT US

DIAGNOSING CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Post-surgical Recovery Rehabilitation therapy may be required after surgery. The recovery period varies, with some symptoms improving quickly, while others may take several months to resolve. In severe cases, some symptoms might persist despite surgical intervention.

DURING YOUR VISIT, WE WILL:

EFFECTIVE TREATMENT OPTIONS

Initial Approach: Avoid actions that exacerbate symptoms. Utilize a pillow or towel to loosely support the elbow at night, preventing bending. Refrain from leaning on the "funny bone."
Therapeutic Guidance: A hand therapist can provide personalized advice on minimizing nerve pressure.
Surgical Intervention (if necessary): To alleviate pressure, your surgeon may release the compressed nerve or relocate the nerve to the front of the elbow. Recovery options and timelines will be discussed with you.

Discuss your symptoms in detail
Conduct a thorough examination
Possibly test for underlying conditions like diabetes or thyroid diseases
In some cases, recommend nerve testing (EMS/NCS) to assess the extent of nerve and muscle damage, ruling out similar conditions like a pinch neck nerve