Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
(Ulnar Neuropathy)

  • Causes: Cubital tunnel syndrome is uncommon and usually no cause is found. Occasionally it may be due to an injury to the elbow, arthritis, diabetes or other medical condition. The symptoms are due to pressure on the ulnar nerve in a tunnel at the elbow – the “cubital tunnel”. Sometimes the ulnar nerve is compressed in other parts of the arm or wrist.
  • Symptoms: Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include tingling, numbness, and weakness in the arm hand and fingers, especially the ring and little fingers. There may be a lot of weakness and wasting of the muscles in the hand with disability of grip and fine movements.  Pain and aching may be felt in the elbow, arm and hand, travelling down from the elbow.
  • Diagnosis: Cubital tunnel syndrome is diagnosed through a physical examination and nerve conduction studies, which measure the electrical activity of the ulnar nerve.
  • Treatment: Treatment options for cubital tunnel syndrome include non-surgical treatments such as splinting, rest, physical therapy, and medications, and surgical treatments such as cubital tunnel release surgery, which takes the pressure off the ulnar nerve by opening the tunnel. The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the symptoms and the overall health of the patient.
  • Prognosis: With proper treatment, the prognosis for patients with cubital tunnel syndrome is relatively good, although many will have permanent weakness and numbness.

It is important to work closely with your healthcare team to develop a comprehensive treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs and goals. The team will be able to provide you with more detailed information about your specific situation and help you understand what to expect.