Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
What is cubital tunnel syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome feels similar to the
pain that occurs from hitting the "funny" bone
in your elbow. The "funny" bone in the elbow is
actually the ulnar nerve, a nerve that crosses
the elbow (the ulnar nerve begins in the side
of the neck and ends in the fingers).
What causes cubital tunnel syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar
nerve, which passes through the cubital tunnel
(a tunnel of muscle, ligament, and bone) on the
inside of the elbow, becomes irritated due to
injury or pressure. The condition may occur when
a person frequently bends the elbows (such as
when pulling, reaching, or lifting), constantly
leans on the elbow, or sustains a direct injury
to the area.
What are the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?
The following are the most common symptoms of cubital
tunnel syndrome. However, each individual may experience
symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:
- numbness in the hand and/or ring and little
finger
- hand pain
- hand and thumb clumsiness due to muscle weakness
The symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome may resemble
other medical conditions or problems, including
medial epicondylitis (golfer's elbow). Always
consult your physician for a diagnosis.
How is cubital tunnel syndrome
diagnosed?
In addition to a complete medical history and
physical examination, diagnostic procedures for
cubital tunnel syndrome may include the following:
- nerve conduction test - a test to determine
how fast signals travel down a nerve to detect
a compression or constriction.
- electromyogram (EMG) - a test to evaluate
nerve and muscle function; a test of the forearm
muscles controlled by the ulnar nerve. If the
muscles do not function properly, this may indicate
that the ulnar nerve is not functioning properly.
Treatment for cubital tunnel
syndrome:
Specific treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome
will be determined by your physician based on:
- your age, overall health, and medical history
- extent of the condition
- your tolerance for specific medications, procedures,
or therapies
- expectations for the course of the condition
- your opinion or preference
The most effective treatment for cubital tunnel
syndrome is the cessation of activity that is
causing the problem. Treatment may include:
- reducing or ceasing any activity, such as
bending, that aggravates the condition
- a splint or foam elbow pad worn at night (to
limit movement and reduce irritation)
- elbow pad (to protect against chronic irritation
from hard surfaces)
- anti-inflammatory medications
- surgery
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