Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Cubital tunnel syndrome (CTS) occurs in the ulnar nerve in your elbow. The ulnar nerve travels through the cubital tunnel and runs along the inner side of your elbow and down to your hand. Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed, stretched, or irritated. You can develop CTS if you frequently lean on your elbow or sleep with your elbow in a bent position and symptoms include numbness or tingling in your hand, hand pain, aching pain in the inner elbow, or weakened grip strength.
At Barrington Orthopedic Specialists, our experienced, certified specialists provide a wide variety of treatment options for cubital tunnel syndrome. If diagnosed early, nonsurgical methods such as wrist splinting, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or cortisone injections, may improve your condition. However, if you have severe symptoms or do not find relief from nonsurgical treatment, your orthopedist may recommend endoscopic or open surgery, designed to relieve pressure from the affected nerve. Our team will work with you to determine which treatment plan is best for your condition and will help you develop a personalized rehabilitation plan that will ensure a quick and healthy recovery process.
If you are struggling with cubital tunnel syndrome, do not allow your condition to worsen. Schedule your first consultation with the team at Barrington Orthopedic Specialists today. If you’re in an emergency situation, visit the Immediate Care Clinic at our Schaumburg, IL location.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the condition that results from increased pressure on one of the nerves in the wrist and hand. In patients with carpal tunnel syndrome, this nerve is compressed as it passes through the wrist. Because of the compression, the nerve does not function properly.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome FAQ
What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the **ulnar nerve**, which runs through the cubital tunnel inside the elbow, becomes compressed or irritated. This nerve controls sensation in the **ring and pinky fingers** and is responsible for certain hand movements.
Common causes of cubital tunnel syndrome include:
- Prolonged **bending of the elbow** (e.g., resting elbows on hard surfaces for long periods).
- Direct **pressure on the elbow**, compressing the ulnar nerve.
- Repetitive **bending and straightening** of the elbow, especially in physical labor or sports.
- Previous elbow injuries, arthritis, or bone spurs that **narrow the cubital tunnel**.
- Holding the elbow in a **bent position for long periods** (e.g., talking on the phone or sleeping with arms bent).
What Are The Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome usually develop gradually and may include:
- Numbness or tingling in the ring and pinky fingers, especially when the elbow is bent.
- Weak grip strength due to muscle weakness in the hand.
- Hand clumsiness (difficulty with fine motor skills like buttoning shirts).
- Pain or discomfort along the inner side of the elbow.
- In **severe cases**, muscle wasting (atrophy) in the hand may occur, particularly in the pinky side of the hand.
Symptoms often worsen **at night or when the elbow is bent for long periods**.
What Are The Treatment Options For Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms. **Mild to moderate cases** can often be managed with **non-surgical treatments**, while severe cases may require surgery.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Activity Modification: Avoid prolonged elbow bending, resting on hard surfaces, or repetitive elbow movements.
- Bracing or Splinting: Wearing a **night splint** to keep the elbow in a straight position can help relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve.
- Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the elbow and wrist may improve symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications (NSAIDs): Ibuprofen or naproxen may help reduce pain and inflammation.
- Padding for the Elbow: Using an elbow pad can reduce pressure when resting on hard surfaces.
Surgical Treatment
If non-surgical treatments fail or symptoms worsen, **surgery may be necessary** to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve.
- Ulnar Nerve Decompression: The surgeon **relieves pressure** on the nerve by removing constrictive tissue.
- Ulnar Nerve Transposition: The nerve is **moved to a new position** to prevent it from being compressed when the elbow bends.
- Medial Epicondylectomy: Part of the **medial epicondyle bone** is removed to create more space for the nerve.
Most patients recover well after surgery, though physical therapy may be needed to regain strength and function.
How Can I Prevent Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
While not all cases are preventable, the following strategies may help reduce the risk:
- Avoid **prolonged elbow flexion** (keeping the elbow bent for long periods).
- Use an **ergonomic workspace** to reduce pressure on the elbow.
- Wear an **elbow brace or pad** if resting the elbow on hard surfaces.
- Practice **nerve gliding exercises** to keep the ulnar nerve moving freely.
- Maintain good **posture** and avoid **leaning on the elbow** while sitting.