Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is also known as Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at the Elbow and it occurs when the ulnar nerve in the elbow becomes compressed or irritated.

The ulnar nerve is one of the three main nerves in the arm. It travels down into your hand and can become constricted in multiple locations along the way, but the most common location for compression is across the elbow. Once the nerve is irritated due to compression the condition is known as “cubital tunnel syndrome”.

The most common symptoms are tingling and numbness in the hand and fingers.

Symptoms of Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at the Elbow

While Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, also known as Ulnar Nerve Entrapment, can cause a generalized aching on the inside of the elbow the majority of the symptoms present in your hand(s).

• Your ring and little finger may experience numbness and tingling. These symptoms can happen when the elbow is in specific and fixed positions such as driving long distances or reading from a cell phone in bed or on the couch. Some people will even be woken up at night by numb fingers.
• A feeling that your ring or little fingers have “fallen asleep” especially when the elbow is bent. You may lose grip strength and dexterity as a result.
• Difficulty with typing or playing a musical instrument can also be indications of nerve compression.
• Muscle wasting is an indication of a long-term or severe compression to the nerve that has gone undiagnosed and untreated. It’s important to see your doctor if you have the above symptoms.

Testing for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome -

Nerve conduction study is an important diagnostic tool, because your nerve is in essence an “electrical circuit” that carries nerve signals from your brain to your muscles. When the nerve is taking too long to conduct the signal, a problem is indicated.

In order to do this test your nerve is stimulated in one spot and the time it takes to illicit a response is then recorded. By taking multiple measurements along the nerve path, the location of the compression can be determined.

Electromyography can also be used to determine if the compression is causing loss of nerve supply to the muscle. Small needles are placed into the muscles that the ulnar nerve controls. Damage to these muscles is an indication of a more severe compression of the nerve.

If you need to schedule an EMG/NCS test because you have Cubital Tunnel Syndrome you can call Precision Medical Group at 855) 364-6281 or click here use our handy contact form. If you’ve been referred to us by your doctor you will want to complete our Patient Intake form. Visit our Locations page for a detailed listing of our locations.

Additional, very detailed information about Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can be found on this website.