Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve in the elbow region becomes compressed or entrapped. It is the second most common nerve entrapment in the upper extremity. Although this condition may arise following local trauma, it is most often spontaneous and the largest contributing factor is elbow position during sleep. The problem may also occur when you stretch the nerve or perform repetitive activities that involve reaching overhead or bending your elbow.
Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include:
- Pain in the elbow which may radiate down the arm
- Night pain
- Numbness in the arm extending to the small and ring fingers
- Weakness of the small muscles in the hand
SSPT's approach to treating cubital tunnel syndrome
SSPT's treatments for cubital tunnel syndrome focus on relieving pressure and irritation to the ulnar nerve at the medial epicondyle of the elbow. Your treatment may include:
- Custom splints that allow cushioning over the nerve and prevent maximal elbow flexion
- Education on activity modification and body mechanics
- Therapeutic modalities to relieve inflammation and pain
- Therapeutic exercises that assist the nerve to glide normally
Learn more about other common hand injuries:
