Treatment for Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at the Elbow in Arlington, VA

One of three main nerves in the arm, the ulnar nerve spans from the neck to the hand, providing sensation to the ring finger and pinky. It also controls the small muscles in the hand responsible for fine motor movements, and the larger muscles in the forearm that enable a strong grip. Ulnar nerve entrapment—also known as cubital tunnel syndrome—occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated at the point where it passes through the cubital tunnel in the elbow.

What Causes Ulnar Nerve Entrapment?

Whenever the elbow is bent, the ulnar nerve must stretch around the bony bump of the joint (medial epicondyle). Activities that involve repeatedly bending the elbow, keeping it bent or leaning on it for an extended time can irritate the nerve.

Because the cubital tunnel is thin and narrow, the ulnar nerve runs close to the skin and is vulnerable to compression. Even a mild blow to the medial epicondyle can cause shock-like pain. Many people are familiar with the sensation of “hitting their funny bone.”

In addition to an ache on the inner side of the elbow, other common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include numbness and tingling in the hand and fingers. Usually, the discomfort comes and goes and intensifies when the elbow is bent.

During the diagnostic process, a physician may perform Tinel’s test, which involves gently tapping along the ulnar nerve in the inner elbow. Although most causes of ulnar nerve entrapment cannot be seen in X-rays, the physician may order images to look for evidence of arthritis or bone spurs. If cubital tunnel syndrome is suspected, the physician may also order a nerve conduction study.

How Is Ulnar Nerve Entrapment Treated?

In most cases, cubital tunnel syndrome can be managed with conservative treatments, such as activity modifications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), nerve-gliding exercises and bracing. Some people find it helpful to loosely wrap their straightened arm in a towel so they will be less likely to bend it while sleeping.

A surgical procedure such as a cubital tunnel release may be considered if the nerve compression is causing disruptive muscle weakness in the hand or interferes with finger coordination and the ability to perform certain tasks, such as typing or playing a musical instrument. Because muscle wasting cannot be reversed, it is important to seek medical attention for symptoms that are severe or last longer than a few weeks.

Learn More

If you would like to learn more about ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow, contact Nirschl Orthopaedic Center at (703) 525-2200 to schedule an appointment with an elbow specialist in Arlington, VA.