CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

ABOUT CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME

Cubital tunnel syndrome is where the ulnar nerve gets compressed as it runs along your arm. The ulnar nerve runs the length of your arm and provides feeling and control to your ring and little finger. At the elbow, the nerve passes through the cubital tunnel – a “tunnel” formed by the bones and muscles in your elbow joint. If the cubital tunnel becomes restricted, it can compress the ulnar nerve and cause cubital tunnel syndrome. We can treat cubital tunnel syndrome in Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster and Worksop.

The factors that may cause cubital tunnel syndrome are varied and include:

• Repetitive bending of the elbow possible work- or sports-related

• Osteoarthritis in the elbow

• Intense gripping for prolonged periods, e.g. whilst driving

• An injury or fracture of the elbow

• The elbow remaining in a bent position for an extended period of time, such as sleeping

You are more likely to get cubital tunnel syndrome if you are male, over 50, have a job or hobby that involves frequent bending at the elbow or have arthritis.

Cubital tunnel syndrome is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome in that a nerve that controls the hand becomes compressed. But the two conditions differ in the fingers they affect, the site of the nerve compression and the nerve that is being compressed.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF CUBITAL TUNNEL SYNDROME?

The symptoms for cubital tunnel syndrome may come and go depending on how severe the nerve entrapment is. However, you may experience symptoms such as:

• Pain on the inside of your elbow

• Numbness or tingling in your ring and little fingers

• Poor grip strength

• Difficulty moving your fingers

Without treatment, cubital tunnel syndrome can lead to muscle wastage in the hand.

WHAT TREATMENTS ARE AVAILABLE?

The treatments for relieving cubital tunnel syndrome include:

• Rest – avoid the activities that require frequent bending of the elbow or adapt your movements to compensate.

• Pain relief – over-the-counter painkillers, such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, can treat the pain and possibly reduce any inflammation as well.

• Physiotherapy – exercises that promote flexibility and strength are important for recovery. Your physio may also recommend how to adapt your arm movements.

• Injections – steroid injections can reduce inflammation and pain in your elbow and arm. This may make physiotherapy more comfortable.

• Splint – a support that can be used to keep the arm straight at night.

If the above treatments don’t improve the condition, surgery that gives the ulnar nerve more space in your elbow might be an option for you. Book an appointment to treat cubital tunnel syndrome in Sheffield, Rotherham, Doncaster or Worksop. You can also follow us on social media.