Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
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CONDITIONS & PROCEDURES
ELBOW
- Cubital Tunnel
- Biceps Ruptures
- Fracture
- Ligament Injuries
- Tennis Elbow
WRIST
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
- Wrist Fractures
- Ligament Injuries
- De Quervain’s Tenosynovitis
- Ganglion Cysts
- Basilar Thumb Arthritis
HAND
- Dupuytren’s Contracture
- Tendon Injuries Nerve Injuries
- Fractures
FINGERS
- Trigger Fingers
- Masses
- Fractures
- Stiffness
- Arthritis
- Mallet Fingers
What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that involves pressure or stretching of the ulnar nerve (also known as the “funny bone” nerve), which can cause numbness or tingling in the ring and small fingers, pain in the forearm, and/or weakness in the hand.
What causes it?
There are a few causes of this ulnar nerve problem. These include:
- Pressure: The nerve has little padding over it. Direct pressure (like leaning the arm on an arm rest) can press the nerve, causing the arm and hand — especially the ring and small fingers — to “fall asleep.”
- Stretching: Keeping the elbow bent for a long time can stretch the nerve behind the elbow. This can happen during sleep.
- Anatomy: Sometimes, the ulnar nerve does not stay in its place and snaps back and forth over a bony bump as the elbow is moved. Repeated snapping can irritate the nerve. Sometimes, the soft tissues over the nerve become thicker or there is an “extra” muscle over the nerve that can keep it from working correctly.
Signs and symptoms
Cubital tunnel syndrome can cause pain, loss of sensation, tingling and/or weakness. “Pins and needles” usually are felt in the ring and small fingers. These symptoms are often felt when the elbow is bent for a long period of time, such as while holding a phone or while sleeping. Some people feel weak or clumsy.
Treatment
Dr. Daniel Singer performs a performs a Decompression Transposition Surgery on the ulnar nerve in the elbow of the patient.
The first treatment is to avoid actions that cause symptoms. Wrapping a pillow or towel loosely around the elbow or wearing a splint at night to keep the elbow from bending can help. Avoiding leaning on the “funny bone” can also help. A hand therapist can help you find ways to avoid pressure on the nerve.
Sometimes, surgery may be needed to relieve the pressure on the nerve. This can involve releasing the nerve, moving the nerve to the front of the elbow, and/or removing a part of the bone. Dr. Singer will talk to you about options.