Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (ulnar neuropathy)
Cubital tunnel syndrome is compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. It typically causes numbness and tingling on the inner forearm and in the ring and little fingers, along with grip weakness.
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Treatment aims to address the underlying cause (arthritis, fractures, etc.) and can be either non-surgical or surgical.
Non-surgical treatment:
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs)
- Elbow splinting or bracing to limit elbow flexion and reduce nerve irritation
- Physical therapy to strengthen muscles and reduce pain
- Steroid injections into the cubital tunnel
Surgical treatment:
For severe cases or when conservative measures fail, surgery can effectively decompress the ulnar nerve. The most common approach is:
- Ulnar nerve decompression with or without anterior transposition: the nerve is released from any areas of compression. If your surgeon feels that anterior transposition is appropraite, a new tunnel is created in front of the elbow and the nerve is moved into it, away from the compressed area.
Both operations are safe and effective. Patients typically go home the same day with oral pain medication and return for follow-up within a few days.