A condition known as cubital tunnel syndrome affects the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow from the neck to the hand. A compressed or irritated ulnar nerve at the elbow can cause ulnar tunnel syndrome, which affects the muscles and sensations in the forearm, hand, and fingers.
There are many possible causes of cubital tunnel syndrome, such as:
Bending the elbow for long periods of time, such as when using a phone, sleeping, or driving.
Leaning on the elbow frequently, such as when working at a desk or table.
Having an injury to the elbow, such as a fracture, dislocation, or sprain.
Having arthritis, bone spurs, cysts, or swelling in the elbow joint.
Having a narrow or shallow cubital tunnel, which is the space where the ulnar nerve passes through the elbow.
Among the main symptoms of ulnar tunnel syndrome are numbness, tingling, and pain in the hand, especially in the ring and little fingers. Other symptoms include:
Weakness and clumsiness in the hand, making it difficult to grip or perform fine movements.
Aching or burning pain in the elbow or forearm.
Muscle wasting or shrinking in the hand, especially in the muscles between the fingers.
A doctor will ask you about your symptoms, medical history, and activities that can cause or worsen ulnar tunnel syndrome. In addition, the doctor will examine the elbow, hand, and arm for signs of nerve damage, such as reduced sensation, strength, or reflexes. He or she may also order some tests, such as:
Nerve conduction studies, which measure how fast and how well the nerve signals travel along the ulnar nerve.
Electromyography (EMG), which records the electrical activity of the muscles controlled by the ulnar nerve.
X-rays, which can show if there are any bone abnormalities or injuries in the elbow.
Depending on the severity of the condition and its underlying cause, ulnar tunnel syndrome can be treated in several ways. Some of the common treatments include relieving the pressure on the ulnar nerve, reducing inflammation and pain, and preventing further nerve damage.
Resting the elbow and avoiding activities that aggravate the symptoms, such as bending, leaning, or lifting.
Wearing a splint or a brace at night or during the day to keep the elbow straight and prevent nerve compression.
Taking anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, to reduce the swelling and pain.
Doing nerve gliding exercises, which help the nerve move smoothly through the cubital tunnel and prevent scarring or stiffness.
Applying ice or heat to the elbow to ease the discomfort.
Surgery may be required if the symptoms are severe or do not improve with conservative treatments. Surgery involves releasing the nerve from the ulnar tunnel and sometimes moving it to a new place to prevent further compression. There are risks and complications associated with surgery, including infection, bleeding, and scarring, which can improve the symptoms and prevent permanent nerve damage.
To prevent cubital tunnel syndrome, it is important to protect the elbow and the ulnar nerve from injury and compression. Some of the preventive measures are:
Keeping the elbow straight as much as possible, especially when sleeping or resting.
Using a headset or speakerphone instead of holding the phone to the ear.
Adjusting the workstation or chair to avoid leaning on the elbow or bending it for long periods of time.
Taking frequent breaks and stretching the elbow and hand during work or other activities.
Seeking medical attention if there is any elbow pain, swelling, or numbness.
