Cubital tunnel syndrome, also known as ulnar nerve entrapment and ulnar tunnel syndrome, is a condition of the hand caused by compression of the ulnar nerve at the wrist. The most common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome are numbness and tingling in the little finger, although these symptoms may also be experienced to some degree in the ring finger. Over time, the condition can become painful, not only in the fingers but in the elbow. Those who suffer from cubital tunnel syndrome can find relief at the Caringbah practice of Dr. Jai Sungaran, serving the Sutherland Shire, South-Eastern Sydney, and neighbouring towns and cities.
If you are experiencing the symptoms of ulnar tunnel syndrome, we encourage you to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Sungaran today.
What is the ulnar nerve?
The ulnar nerve is one of the three primary nerves of the arm. It begins in the neck and travels down to the hand via a groove the cubital tunnel within the elbow. When you hit your funny bone’ you are actually striking your ulnar nerve, which is why you commonly experience tingling and discomfort not only in your elbow but also in the pinkie and ring fingers of your hand.
What are the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?
In its initial stages, the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome may be fairly mild; they may include slight tingling or numbness in the little finger and possibly the ring finger. As the condition progresses, however, other symptoms may manifest, including:
- Weakness, especially in the little finger
- Reduced gripping strength
- Pain in the little finger, the palm, and the elbow
- Loss of coordination in the little and ring fingers
- A worsening of symptoms in cold environments
What causes cubital tunnel syndrome?
In general, cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve. This pressure may result from injury, repetitive trauma, or chronic pressure. Cubital tunnel syndrome is fairly common among bicyclists, for example, because of the manner in which they grip the handlebars.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is also commonly caused by ganglion cysts, benign growths that can develop on the wrist. Many ganglion cysts on the wrist cause no issues whatsoever, but when they press against the ulnar nerve, they can trigger the symptoms associated with cubital tunnel syndrome.
How is cubital tunnel syndrome diagnosed?
Diagnosis of cubital tunnel syndrome involves careful examination of the patient’s wrist and hand, as well as the elbow, since pressure on the elbow can produce symptoms in the hand. During the physical exam, Dr. Sungaran assesses muscle strength and taps the ulnar nerve to gauge the sensations the patient experiences.
It is likely that further tests, such as x-ray and possibly MRI, will be ordered to determine whether a growth or other structure within the wrist is putting pressure on the ulnar nerve. A nerve conduction study may also be performed to measure how well the nerve is functioning.
How is cubital tunnel syndrome treated non-surgically?
In cases in which cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by repetitive trauma or chronic pressure, a period of rest and avoidance of the activity that caused the condition may be recommended. This may be combined with splint therapy to prevent movement of the wrist and anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen to relieve symptoms.
The foremost non-surgical treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome is hand therapy. Dr. Sungaran works exclusively with a group of hand therapists whom he trusts implicitly. These professionals provide patients with strategies for using their hands to perform routine tasks in such a way that they won’t exert undue pressure on their ulnar nerves. In many cases, patients are even able to resume with caution some of the tasks that initially caused their condition, but in ways that are less likely to aggravate their wrists. During hand therapy, patients can also learn exercises to strengthen their wrists and hands.
How is cubital tunnel syndrome treated surgically?
If cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by a ganglion cyst putting pressure on the ulnar nerve, then surgical removal of the cyst may be recommended. The cyst is removed along with part of the joint capsule or tendon sheath to which it is attached. After surgery and a suitable recovery time, physical therapy will be necessary to return full strength and function to the wrist and hand.
Learn More about the Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
If you would like to learn more about the treatment of ulnar syndrome, or you wish to schedule a consultation with Dr. Jai Sungaran at our Sutherland Shire practice, with Caringbah and Sydney Olympic Park office locations, please contact Southern Hand & Wrist today.
