Learn about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of ulnar nerve entrapment.
Ulnar nerve entrapment (cubital tunnel syndrome) is a condition in which the ulnar nerve is compressed at the elbow joint, causing pain.
- There are two bones below the elbow, and pain occurs when the ulnar nerve beneath them is compressed
- When the nerve is compressed at the back of the inner elbow, it is called cubital tunnel syndrome
- Pressure from bone within the elbow affects the nerve, causing problems with muscles and skin sensation
It is generally caused by an external injury that compresses the ulnar nerve, or by overuse of the structures of the arm and wrist.
Pressure on the ulnar nerve from forceful twisting or bending of the arm
Osteoarthritis that compresses the nerve or narrows the passage the nerve runs through
Congenital abnormalities of the arm muscles, or injury from exercise or sports
It causes numbness in the wrist and arm and pain, which are common symptoms of arm and hand conditions. You may notice reduced sensation in the little finger at night. Severe nerve compression can even cause muscle paralysis.
Pain and numbness, with reduced mobility such as difficulty bending
If the muscles contract, the fingers may stay curled
Severe nerve compression can cause muscle paralysis
Numbness and pain in the hands and arms after heavy housework
It can be diagnosed with electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies, based on the medical history, a consultation with the doctor and a basic physical examination. It may also be suspected if the ring and little fingers are difficult to spread apart.
It can improve with rest, observation and lifestyle changes. Conservative treatments such as medication and physical therapy are also available. However, surgery is needed to treat the root cause of nerve compression. Surgery involves nerve decompression with relatively simple arthroscopy, anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve, or neurolysis.
