Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome, is similar to carpal tunnel syndrome. Is the compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Patients can refer numbness and tingling that is confined to little finger and the outside of your ring finger. Excessive pressure on this nerve can result in a loss of feeling and/or muscle weakness in the hand.

Signs and symptoms: Patients may experience weakness and numbness, particularly on the little finger side of the hand or sensory or motor changes or both, depending on the compression. Symptoms develop gradually and can lead to difficulties in using the hand as holding objects.

Diagnosis It’s possible to find atrophy or weakness in muscle’s hand. It’s important to test the sensory system and tap a finger over the nerve to see if this produces a tingling sensation (Tinel sign). When the patient spreads the fingers apart, it’s possible to look for signs of muscle weakness or dry skin in the spaces between the fingers. A useful exam is the EMG to evaluate the nerve conduction, and also X-Ray and Ultrasound can show alteration of bone or cyst.

Treatment Treatment depends on what's causing the compression. If pressure results from the position of the elbow when at rest, change the position or use a splint can be useful. Prescription of anti-inflammatory medications may alleviate symptoms. However, most cases of ulnar tunnel syndrome are caused by a growth in the elbow and must be treated with surgery to remove the growth, cysts, scar tissue, or other causes of compression. Once the pressure point is removed, you'll notice an improvement in sensation with a decrease in the numbness and tingling. But it will take several months to heal completely.