Cubital tunnel syndrome or ulnar nerve entrapment is caused by increased pressure or irritation of the ulnar nerve. The condition can cause pain, tingling, and weakness in your hand, fingers, and elbow.
The ulnar nerve is located near the skin’s surface in the elbow region and is commonly known as the "funny bone." It provides sensory input to the little finger and part of the ring finger and controls the strength of grip for the hand.
Factors such as repetitive elbow bending, prolonged pressure on the elbow, and direct injury or trauma can lead to cubital tunnel syndrome. Cubital tunnel syndrome is initially addressed with non-surgical methods. If proven ineffective, surgical interventions might be suggested.
The elbow is a joint that allows for the bending and straightening of the arm and facilitates forearm rotation.
The ulnar nerve is one of the three main nerves in your arm - alongside the median and radial nerves. It starts from your neck, travels down your arm, and goes all the way to your hand.
As it travels, the ulnar nerve passes through the cubital tunnel, situated along the inner side of the elbow. The cubital tunnel is a narrow passageway formed by the bones, ligaments, and muscles in the elbow. The ulnar nerve is especially vulnerable to compression at the elbow as it travels through the narrow space with very little soft tissue to protect it.
The ulnar nerve is a crucial component of the arm's neural network. Compression, irritation, or inflammation of the ulnar nerve can lead to cubital tunnel syndrome and various related symptoms.
Various activities and conditions can increase pressure and induce inflammation of the ulnar nerve, leading to cubital tunnel syndrome.
Factors that increase the risk of cubital tunnel syndrome include:
Cubital tunnel syndrome affects your forearm, including the hand, fingers, and elbow. Symptoms predominantly occur in the little finger and a part of the ring finger. Common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include:
You might experience the symptoms more when your elbow is bent during activities such as driving, holding a phone, or during sleep.
It is crucial to differentiate between cubital tunnel syndrome and carpal tunnel syndrome to avoid confusion. Although both conditions affect your hands and arms, cubital tunnel syndrome primarily impacts the pinky and ring finger, whereas carpal tunnel syndrome affects the thumb, index finger, and middle finger.
If left untreated or in severe cases, cubital tunnel syndrome can lead to muscle wasting or atrophy. When there is prolonged compression or damage to the ulnar nerve, it can result in a decreased ability of the nerve to send signals to the muscles it innervates, leading to muscle wasting.
The diagnosis of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of your elbow and forearm. At Kimball Health Services, we employ various methods and tests to ensure an accurate assessment of your condition.
The process begins with a comprehensive medical history assessment, during which detailed information about your symptoms, their onset, and any relevant medical history or injuries is gathered.
Following that, a physical examination of your arm and hand is conducted by Dr. Wyatt, our board-certified hand, plastics, & reconstructive surgeon. This examination aims to evaluate the range of motion in your elbow, assess the strength of your hand and fingers, and identify any areas of tenderness or swelling.
Imaging studies, such as X-rays, may be performed to evaluate the structures in your elbow. These studies help identify areas where your bones might compress the ulnar nerve and rule out other conditions like arthritis or structural abnormalities.
Electromyography (EMG) may be conducted to assess the condition of the ulnar nerve and identify areas of nerve compression to help pinpoint the location and severity of nerve damage.
The treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome depends on the severity of your symptoms. Treatment options may involve both non-surgical and, in certain cases, surgical approaches.
Unless there is notable muscle wasting, non-surgical methods can effectively manage cubital tunnel syndrome.
In severe cases, when non-surgical methods prove ineffective, particularly if you're experiencing muscle weakness and wasting, surgery may be necessary. Dr. William Wyatt, our board-certified hand, plastics, and reconstructive surgeon, specializes in performing surgery to address cubital tunnel syndrome.
The primary objective of the surgical treatment is to release pressure on the ulnar nerve and create additional space within the cubital tunnel.
Cubital tunnel release is a surgical procedure that reduces compression on the ulnar nerve by creating more space for it within the cubital tunnel. During the procedure, the ligament roof of the cubital tunnel is cut and divided. This increases the size of the tunnel and decreases pressure on the nerve.
The procedure can help relieve the symptoms and prevent further nerve damage.
At Kimball Health Services, we offer a range of comprehensive treatment options, including surgical interventions, for the management of cubital tunnel syndrome. Our team provides personalized treatment plans according to the severity of your condition and your overall health.
In case of an emergency, call 911 or walk into our emergency department anytime. To schedule a consultation with our healthcare providers, please contact us at 308-235-1966 or request an appointment online. We’re here for you whenever you need us.
