# Ulnar Nerve Entrapment

- Link: https://carolinaona.com/ulnar-nerve-entrapment/
- Published: 2019-01-18T21:00:33-05:00
- Author: Dallas Clifton

# Ulnar Nerve Entrapment

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### Ulnar Nerve Entrapment Overview

Ulnar nerve entrapment or cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve is
entrapped in the area where it passes through the elbow bone. A tissue tunnel known
as the cubital tunnel presses against the nerve and causes symptoms in the ring 
and little fingers. Patients who experience symptoms should make an appointment 
with a Carolina Orthopaedic and Neurosurgical Associates’ (CONA) elbow specialist
as soon as possible.

## **Symptoms & Causes**

Ulnar nerve entrapment symptoms include:

 * Elbow pain
 * Forearm pain
 * Tingling and numbness
 * Hand weakness *in severe cases

Common ulnar nerve entrapment causes include:

 * A direct ball to the elbow
 * A direct fall on the elbow
 * Elbow joint fluid buildup

Prolonged elbow bending (sleeping with the elbow bent, leaning on the elbow)

## **Common Treatments:**

Nonsurgical treatment options treat the majority of ulnar nerve entrapment cases.
After a thorough evaluation, a CONA elbow specialist may recommend:

 * Activity modification
 * Anti-inflammatory medications
 * Bracing
 * Elbow pads
 * Physical therapy
 * Towel or pillow wrapping

A CONA specialist may recommend surgery when symptoms do not respond to nonsurgical
treatment. During a cubital tunnel release, a CONA specialist releases the trapped
tendon and symptoms are quickly relieved.

## **Diagnosis:**

A CONA elbow specialist:

 * Obtains a detailed history that includes symptoms, medical conditions, activities
   and prior injuries
 * Thoroughly examines the arm
 * Orders x-rays to check for elbow deformities

In some cases, a nerve conduction study (NCS) is performed to confirm a diagnosis