Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS), also known as ulnar neuropathy, affects the ulnar nerve as it passes through a narrow tunnel of tissue on the inside of the elbow. It causes numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers, elbow discomfort, and hand weakness. In many cases, simple changes and conservative care relieve the symptoms, and surgery is available for severe cases.
Treatment depends on the severity and underlying cause. In some cases, simply avoiding the activities that cause symptoms is enough.
Non-surgical care
Surgical options
Surgery is considered for severe cases, or when there is weakness or conservative care has not helped.
Cubital tunnel syndrome develops when the ulnar nerve is compressed, stretched, or irritated at the elbow. Common causes include:
Repetitive or prolonged elbow bending
Puts pressure on the ulnar nerve, leading to irritation.
Direct injury
A blow or trauma to the elbow can damage the nerve.
Arthritis
Inflammation and swelling in the elbow press on the nerve.
Bone spurs or cysts
Growths in the cubital tunnel compress the nerve.
Ganglion cysts
Fluid-filled sacs that form around the nerve.
Leaning on the elbow
Resting on the elbow at a desk or in a car.
Small daily changes reduce pressure on the nerve and often ease mild symptoms.
Avoid prolonged bending
Use a headset or speaker instead of holding a phone to your ear.
Keep the elbow straighter at night
A towel wrapped loosely around the elbow or a night splint helps.
Do not lean on the elbow
Pad armrests and avoid resting on the inside of the elbow.
Adjust your workstation
Keep the keyboard low enough that the elbows are not sharply bent.
Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS), also called ulnar neuropathy at the elbow, is compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel on the inside of the elbow.
The "funny bone" tingle comes from bumping the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Cubital tunnel syndrome causes similar tingling that lasts or keeps returning because the nerve is persistently compressed.
It typically causes numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers, and may weaken the small muscles of the hand used for grip and fine movements.
Keeping the elbow bent for long periods, such as while sleeping, holding a phone, or leaning on the elbow, increases pressure on the ulnar nerve.
Your provider will review your symptoms and examine sensation and strength in the hand. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography measure how well the ulnar nerve works.
Yes. Avoiding prolonged elbow bending, night splinting, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medication often relieve mild to moderate symptoms.
Surgery such as cubital tunnel release may be considered when symptoms are severe, when there is muscle weakness or wasting, or when conservative care has not helped.
Total Spine and Orthopedics evaluates nerve problems of the arm and hand in Melbourne, Orlando (Lake Nona), and Titusville. Call (321) 499-4646.
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