Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, which passes through a narrow tunnel on the inner side of the elbow, becomes compressed or irritated. This nerve, often referred to as the funny bone, controls many of the small muscles in the hand and provides sensation to the ring and pinky fingers.
Symptoms often worsen when the elbow is held in a bent position for a long time, such as during sleep or while holding a phone.
Numbness and Tingling: A pins and needles sensation in the ring finger and little finger.
Hand Weakness: Difficulty with fine motor tasks, such as buttoning a shirt or typing.
Clumsiness: A tendency to drop objects or a loss of coordination in the fingers.
Muscle Wasting: In advanced cases, the small muscles of the hand may begin to look thinner or sunken.
Inner Elbow Ache: A dull, aching pain on the inside of the elbow joint.
Physical Exam:
Nerve Conduction Study / Electromyogram (EMG): A test that measures how fast signals travel down the nerve to find the exact site of compression and to assess for permanent damage.
Ultrasound: A non-invasive way to see if the nerve is swollen or if it is snapping out of place when the elbow bends.
Early intervention is key to preventing permanent nerve damage and muscle loss. Treatment depends on severity.
Mild: Bracing at night to keep the elbow straight and avoiding leaning on the arm.
Moderate: Nerve gliding exercises and physical therapy to improve nerve mobility.
Severe: Surgical decompression to create more space for the nerve or to move it.