Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

Cubital tunnel syndrome can be a real pain – literally! It’s a condition that affects the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inside of your elbow. When this nerve gets compressed or irritated, it can lead to numbness, tingling, and pain in your hand and fingers. Thankfully, there are various effective cubital tunnel syndrome treatments available to help you get back to feeling your best.

Understanding Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Before diving into treatment options, let’s understand what’s happening inside your arm. The ulnar nerve travels through a narrow passageway called the cubital tunnel, located on the inner side of your elbow. This nerve is responsible for sensation in your little finger and half of your ring finger, as well as controlling some of the muscles in your hand that help with grip and fine motor movements. When the nerve gets compressed within the cubital tunnel, it can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms.

  • Symptoms: The most common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include numbness and tingling in the little and ring fingers, especially when the elbow is bent. You might also experience weakness in your hand, difficulty with fine motor tasks (like buttoning a shirt), and pain along the inside of your elbow.
  • Causes: Several factors can contribute to cubital tunnel syndrome. These include repetitive elbow movements, direct pressure on the elbow, leaning on your elbow for extended periods, arthritis, bone spurs, or previous elbow injuries. In some cases, the cause may be unknown.
  • Diagnosis: A doctor can diagnose cubital tunnel syndrome through a physical examination, nerve conduction studies (NCS), and electromyography (EMG). These tests help determine the severity and location of the nerve compression.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Many people find relief from cubital tunnel syndrome with non-surgical treatments. These approaches focus on reducing pressure on the ulnar nerve and alleviating symptoms.

  • Activity Modification: Adjusting your activities to avoid repetitive elbow movements or prolonged bending can make a big difference. For example, if you spend a lot of time on the computer, make sure your workstation is ergonomically set up to avoid leaning on your elbows.
  • Elbow Splinting: Wearing an elbow splint, especially at night, can help keep your elbow straight and prevent the ulnar nerve from being stretched or compressed while you sleep.
  • Nerve Gliding Exercises: These exercises help to gently move the ulnar nerve through the cubital tunnel, preventing it from sticking and improving its mobility. A physical therapist can teach you specific nerve gliding exercises to perform at home.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain associated with cubital tunnel syndrome. In some cases, your doctor may prescribe stronger anti-inflammatory medications.
  • Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide a comprehensive treatment plan that includes exercises to improve range of motion, strength, and nerve gliding techniques. They can also offer guidance on proper posture and ergonomics to prevent future problems.

Surgical Treatment for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

When non-surgical treatments don’t provide adequate relief, surgery may be considered. The goal of surgery is to release the pressure on the ulnar nerve. There are several surgical options available:

  • Cubital Tunnel Release: This is the most common surgical procedure for cubital tunnel syndrome. The surgeon makes an incision at the elbow and cuts the roof of the cubital tunnel, releasing the pressure on the ulnar nerve.
  • Ulnar Nerve Anterior Transposition: In this procedure, the ulnar nerve is moved from its location behind the elbow to a new location in front of the elbow. This prevents the nerve from being stretched or compressed when the elbow is bent. There are different types of ulnar nerve transposition, including subcutaneous, intramuscular, and submuscular transposition.
  • Medial Epicondylectomy: This involves removing a portion of the medial epicondyle (the bony bump on the inner side of your elbow) to create more space for the ulnar nerve.

After surgery, you’ll likely need to wear a splint or cast for a few weeks to protect the elbow. Physical therapy is often recommended to help regain strength, range of motion, and function in your arm and hand.

Key Takeaways

Cubital tunnel syndrome can cause uncomfortable symptoms in your arm and hand, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, you can find relief. Non-surgical treatments like activity modification, elbow splinting, and nerve gliding exercises are often effective. When these measures don’t provide enough relief, surgery may be an option. Consulting with a healthcare professional is essential to determine the best course of treatment for your specific situation. Remember, early intervention can help prevent long-term nerve damage and improve your overall quality of life.

Ready to take the next step in treating your cubital tunnel syndrome? Book a consultation with Mr. David Shields at https://www.circlehealthgroup.co.uk/consultants/david-shields or contact us for an appointment at info@theupperlimbclinic.co.uk. We’re here to help you get back to feeling your best!