Cubital tunnel syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve as it passes through a tunnel on the inside of your elbow, known as the cubital tunnel. The ulnar nerve is often called the "funny bone" nerve, and its compression can lead to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms in the hand and arm.
What are the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?
Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome typically affect the ring and little fingers and can include:
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Numbness and tingling: A pins and needles sensation, often felt in the ring and little fingers.
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Pain: Aching pain on the inside of the elbow that can radiate down the forearm.
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Weakness: A loss of hand strength, making it difficult to grip objects or perform fine motor tasks.
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How is cubital tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
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A specialist will perform a physical examination to check for areas of numbness, nerve sensitivity, and muscle strength. You may be asked to perform a simple test, such as bending your elbow for a period of time, to see if it reproduces your symptoms. A nerve conduction study is often used to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the nerve compression.
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How is cubital tunnel syndrome treated?
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Treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome often begins with conservative measures. These may include:
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Activity modification: Avoiding activities that place direct pressure on the elbow or require prolonged elbow bending.
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Elbow splinting: Wearing a splint at night to keep the elbow straight and prevent nerve compression while you sleep.
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Therapy: Hand therapy exercises to improve muscle strength.
For persistent or severe cases, cubital tunnel syndrome surgery may be recommended to relieve the pressure on the nerve. This is a highly effective procedure performed by a consultant hand, elbow and shoulder surgeon Mr Shyamalan.
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Get expert help for your hand and elbow pain
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If you are experiencing numbness, tingling, or pain in your hand and arm, it's time to get a professional opinion. As a leading hand surgeon in Solihull and the West Midlands, Mr Shyamalan is an expert in diagnosing and treating cubital tunnel syndrome.
Contact Midland Hand Clinic today to book your consultation and get the care you need.