Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common peripheral nerve entrapment, caused by compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow.
Understanding Cubital Tunnel
The ulnar nerve travels through a channel called the cubital tunnel on the inside of the elbow. When compressed or stretched, it causes symptoms in the ring and little fingers and the hand.
Causes
- Prolonged elbow bending (sleeping, phone use)
- Leaning on the elbow
- Previous elbow fractures or arthritis
- Bone spurs or cysts near the elbow
- Repetitive elbow flexion activities
Treatment Options
Conservative Care
- Elbow padding and splinting
- Activity modification
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Nerve gliding exercises
Surgical Options
- In-situ decompression: Releasing the roof of the cubital tunnel
- Ulnar nerve transposition: Moving the nerve to a new position
- Medial epicondylectomy: Removing bone to reduce pressure
Most patients experience significant improvement in symptoms following surgical treatment.
Common Symptoms
- Numbness and tingling in ring and pinky fingers
- Weakness in hand grip
- Difficulty with fine motor tasks
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Symptoms worse when elbow is bent
- Muscle wasting in the hand (advanced cases)
Treatment Options
Elbow splinting and padding
In-situ ulnar nerve decompression
Ulnar nerve transposition
Medial epicondylectomy
Physical therapy
Dr. Marcus Stephens and Dr. Jerry Walters II
Board-Certified Neurosurgeon
Providing expert cubital tunnel syndrome treatment at Nova Brain and Spine of GA in Hampton, Georgia. Serving patients throughout Southern Georgia and the Atlanta metro area.