Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition caused by compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve as it passes behind the elbow, through a narrow space called the cubital tunnel. The ulnar nerve—commonly known as the “funny bone” nerve—is responsible for sensation in the ring and little fingers, and for powering fine motor control in parts of the hand.
When this nerve becomes compressed or inflamed, it can lead to numbness, tingling, weakness, and eventually muscle wasting in the hand if left untreated.
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Causes and Risk Factors
- Prolonged elbow bending, such as during phone use or sleeping with elbows bent
- Leaning on the elbow frequently (e.g., desk work, driving)
- Elbow arthritis, bone spurs, or prior fractures
- Repetitive motions or overhead throwing in athletes
- Previous elbow surgery or trauma
Symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers
- Symptoms often worsen at night or with prolonged elbow bending
- Hand weakness, especially in grip strength or fine motor skills
- Difficulty with tasks like typing, opening jars, or manipulating small objects
- In advanced cases, muscle wasting (atrophy) in the hand and claw-like finger position
Diagnosis
- Physical exam, including:
- Tinel’s sign (tapping the ulnar nerve at the elbow reproduces symptoms)
- Elbow flexion test (symptoms worsen when the elbow is bent)
- Nerve conduction studies and EMG to evaluate the speed and integrity of nerve signals
- Imaging such as X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out structural causes like bone spurs
Treatment
Non-Surgical Treatment
- Often effective in early or mild cases
- Includes:
- Activity modification (avoiding prolonged elbow flexion or pressure)
- Elbow padding or night splints to keep the arm straight during sleep
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the surrounding muscles
Surgical Treatment
- Considered when symptoms are severe, progressive, or not improving with conservative care
- Surgical options include:
- Ulnar nerve decompression (relieves pressure without moving the nerve)
- Anterior transposition (moves the nerve to a less vulnerable position in front of the elbow)
- Medial epicondylectomy in selected cases
Recovery Outlook
Postoperative recovery typically begins with light movement and restrictions on heavy activity
Most patients resume normal function in 4 to 6 weeks
Full nerve recovery may take several months, depending on the duration and severity of pre-surgical symptoms
Why Kerlan Jobe Institute?
At Kerlan Jobe Institute, our specialists provide comprehensive care for cubital tunnel syndrome, using both advanced diagnostic tools and tailored treatment plans. Our goal is to preserve hand function, alleviate discomfort, and restore quality of life with minimal downtime.
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Surgery is just the beginning. How do you heal, move, and feel when all is said and done?
From NHL and NBA players to weekend warriors, our goal is the same: getting you back to doing what you love.
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Kerlan-Jobe provides comprehensive orthopaedic care for patients seeking expert treatment for sports injuries, joint pain, and mobility limitations. We offers specialized experience and a patient-first approach designed to support lasting results.
Contact the office to schedule a consultation and learn more about your treatment options.