Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a peripheral nerve entrapment syndrome. It’s an injury or irration of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. This condition is also known as ulnar nerve entrapment. If this condition is left untreated, it can cause permanent nerve damage and disability.
The exact cause of cubital tunnel syndrome is not obvious. The ulnar nerve travels throught a narrow passeway that has very little soft tissue to protect it, making this nerve vulnerable to compression at the elbow. This condition may occur when a person frequently bends the elbows, leans on their elbow or has sustained an injury to the affected area. The nerve can become inflamed or tear as a result of compression or entrapment.
Symptoms of cubital tunnel can include the following:
- Weakened Grip
- Aching Pain (Inside of the Elbow)
- Numbness and tingling in the 4th and 5th fingers
- Difficulty with Finger Coordination
- Muscle Wasting (Hand)
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosis
A diagnosis commonly includes a physical examination of the hand and arms, medical history, and a discussion concerning symptoms and prior injuries. X-rays, lab test, and an EMG (electrodiagnostic nerve studies) might also used to confirm a a patient has cubital tunnel syndrome.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Non-operative treatments are generally recommended unless the patients nerve compressions has caused muscle wasting. The longer a patients suffering from this disorder experiences symptoms, the more likely it is that they will need Cubital Tunnel Surgery to treat the condition. There are a few different surgical approaches to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve and they are typically done as outpatient procedures.
Examples of surgical procedures and conservative treatments for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include:
- Activity Modification
- Anti-Inflammatory Medicines
- Brace / Splint
- Cubital Tunnel Release
- Elbow Pad
- Exercises
- Physical Therapy
- Medial Epicondylectomy
- Ulnar Nerve Anterior Transposition
Orthopedic Doctors At The CMD
If you are suffering from nerve entrapment or any other musculoskeletal disorders, make an appointment with one of our Orthopedic Elbow Specialist at The Center For Musculoskeletal Disorders.
We are experienced in diagnosing nerve entrapment injuries like Cubital Tunnel Syndrome and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. An early diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of a disorder can prevent the affected area from becoming further damaged.