Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common nerve compression disorder in the upper extremity, after carpal tunnel syndrome. It occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed or irritated as it passes through the cubital tunnel, a narrow channel on the inside of the elbow. The ulnar nerve is the same nerve responsible for the “funny bone” sensation when you bump your elbow.
The ulnar nerve is vulnerable at the elbow because it sits in a shallow groove just behind the bony bump (medial epicondyle) with minimal soft tissue protection. Activities that involve prolonged elbow bending, leaning on the elbow, or repetitive elbow flexion can aggravate the nerve.
What Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Feels Like
Symptoms typically develop gradually and may be intermittent at first. The ulnar nerve controls sensation in the ring and small fingers and powers many of the small muscles in the hand.
- Numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers
- Symptoms that worsen with prolonged elbow bending (sleeping, phone use, driving)
- Weakness in hand grip and difficulty with fine motor tasks
- Pain along the inside of the elbow or forearm
- Difficulty opening jars, turning keys, or manipulating small objects
- A feeling that the ring and small fingers “fall asleep” frequently
- In advanced cases, visible wasting of the small muscles in the hand
Treatment Path
Conservative treatment includes avoiding prolonged elbow bending, using an elbow pad, and nighttime splinting to keep the elbow straight during sleep. When symptoms persist, progress, or nerve testing shows significant compression, surgical treatment is recommended. Dr. Waldron performs ulnar nerve transposition, which moves the nerve to a protected position in front of the elbow where it is no longer subject to compression.