Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Numbness in the little and ring fingers, hand weakness or aching caused by irritation of the ulnar nerve around the elbow.
Common symptoms
Typical symptoms include intermittent numbness or tingling in the little finger and ulnar side of the ring finger, aching around the inner elbow, reduced grip endurance and symptoms that worsen while sleeping, holding a phone or keeping the elbow bent.
Why it happens
The ulnar nerve passes through a relatively confined region behind the inner side of the elbow. Repeated bending, prolonged pressure, previous injury, arthritis or individual anatomy can increase irritation or compression.
How it is diagnosed
Diagnosis begins with the symptom pattern and examination of sensation, finger strength and nerve irritability around the elbow. Nerve-conduction studies and electromyography may be requested when symptoms are persistent, weakness is present or surgery is being considered.
Treatment without surgery
Early treatment may include avoiding prolonged elbow flexion, reducing pressure over the inner elbow, night positioning and modifying activities that clearly provoke symptoms. Associated medical or occupational factors should also be addressed.
When surgery is considered
Surgery may be discussed when symptoms remain significant despite non-operative care, when testing shows important compression, or when weakness or muscle wasting indicates loss of nerve function.
Recovery
Sensory symptoms may improve gradually after decompression. Long-standing weakness or muscle wasting can recover slowly and may be incomplete when the nerve has been severely compressed for a prolonged period.
Progressive hand weakness, visible wasting between the thumb and index finger, persistent numbness or rapidly worsening symptoms should not be ignored.