Most symptoms associated with cubital tunnel syndrome are a result of bending of your elbow. It could be either while you are sleeping, driving or holding the phone for a longer time. Common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include:

• Inability to move your fingers due to numbness or tingling.
• Numbness in the hand and fingers that can recur.
• Pain on the inner side of the elbow that develops with certain activities
• Tingling in your hand and fingers.
• Weakness of grip which makes it difficult to hold things, or do fine motor work like writing.

If symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome persist for more than a week or are severe, it’s advisable to see an orthopedist or a specialist. It’s important to seek timely treatment because cubital tunnel syndrome may also lead your hand muscles to shrink and weaken, causing clumsiness and severe pain.

Some factors that increase the risk of developing cubital tunnel syndrome include:

• Arthritis of the elbow
• Bone spurs
• Cysts near the elbow joint
• Previous elbow fracture or dislocation
• Swelling of the elbow joint

If left untreated, cubital tunnel syndrome may lead to one or more of the following complications:

• Infection
• Elbow flexion contracture
• Nerve damage
• Elbow instability
• Pain at the site of the scar

In addition to a complete medical history and physical examination, our experts may recommend one or more of the following diagnostic assessments based on the patient’s condition:

• Nerve conduction test: Determines how fast signals travel through the ulnar nerve to detect compression or constriction.
• Electromyogram (EMG): Evaluates nerve and muscle function of the forearm muscles controlled by the ulnar nerve.
• X-ray: Used to detect degenerative changes in the spine or elbow, as well as previous fractures.

Felix Hospitals, Noida is equipped with advanced technologies to detect, treat, and manage the condition effectively.

Medical Management

At Felix Hospital, our orthopedists provide the best treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome, including both surgical and non-surgical options. Common treatment methods include:

• Bracing/Splinting: Wearing a padded brace or splint while sleeping may help keep your elbow straight.
• Exercise and Physical Therapy: Exercises help the ulnar nerve slide more easily through the cubital tunnel and prevent stiffness in the arm and wrist.
• Corticosteroid Injections: Direct injections of corticosteroids into the carpal tunnel may provide faster relief from pain and inflammation.
• Medications: Anti-inflammatory medicines help reduce swelling around the nerve and alleviate pain caused by cubital tunnel syndrome.

Surgical Management

Surgical Intervention: If nonsurgical treatments do not improve your cubital tunnel syndrome, your specialist may recommend cubital tunnel release surgery. This procedure involves cutting and dividing the ligament to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve.

The primary goal of the surgery is to increase the size of the cubital tunnel, reduce nerve compression, and enhance blood flow, thereby promoting healing and recovery.

Preventing or reducing ulnar nerve compression can be as simple as maintaining good posture and practicing proper form when using your elbow and arm. Here are a few preventive measures to avoid ulnar nerve compression:

• Limit activities that may worsen the condition, such as tennis or golf.
• Avoid leaning on your elbow while driving or sitting.
• Keep your arm straight while at rest.
• Wear a splint while sleeping to prevent the elbow from bending.