Your Hand Health Questions, Answered

Cubital tunnel syndrome is compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve at the inside of the elbow, near the “funny bone”. This nerve supplies feeling to the little finger and part of the ring finger and controls several small hand muscles. Compression can cause tingling, numbness and hand weakness.

The conditions affect different nerves in different locations. Cubital tunnel syndrome involves the ulnar nerve at the elbow and typically affects the little and ring fingers. Carpal tunnel syndrome involves the median nerve at the wrist and usually affects the thumb, index, middle and part of the ring finger.

Holding the elbow bent for long periods can increase irritation or pressure on the ulnar nerve. Symptoms may occur when using a phone, driving or sleeping with a bent elbow. Persistent numbness or symptoms accompanied by weakness should be assessed to establish the cause and check nerve function.

Diagnosis involves reviewing your symptoms and examining elbow movement, hand sensation and strength. Nerve conduction studies may help assess compression. For milder cases, treatment can include avoiding pressure on the elbow, reducing prolonged elbow bending and using a night splint or therapist-guided positioning advice.

Surgery may be recommended for severe compression, progressive weakness or symptoms that persist despite non-surgical treatment. The procedure relieves pressure on the ulnar nerve.