Cubital Tunnel syndrome and Treatment Cubital tunnel syndrome is characterized by pressure and stretching in the ulnar nerve which leads to numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers. Patients usually complain of pain in the upper arm and/or weakness in the hand. If the condition is not diagnosed on time, the condition may deteriorate with the development of irreversible muscle atrophy and hand contractures. Symptoms can alleviate with the decompression of ulnar nerve which can also prevent the progression of the condition. Symptoms Pain on the posterior portion of the elbow where the ulnar nerve travels through the cubital tunnel. Pain in the elbow joint Pins and needles, tingling and numbness in the entire little finger and one half of the ring finger Causes Among the common causes of the condition include increased pressure from bone or connective tissue on a nerve of wrist, arm or elbow. Here are the causative factors: Increased pressure The concerned nerve has thin padding over it so any direct pressure exerted on it from leaning the arm on an arm rest can cause the arm and hand to “fall asleep.” Over-stretching When the elbow remains bent for a long time, usually during sleep, it can trigger the symptoms. Anatomy Ulnar nerve may get misplaced and moves back and forth over a bony bump with the movement of the elbow. This repeated snapping can cause irritation in the nerve. Occasionally, extra muscles get build up over the soft tissues and the nerve becomes thicker, thus not being able to work correctly.
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