Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by increased pressure on the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel—a narrow passageway consisting of bone and ligaments on the inside of the elbow. This nerve compression can lead to pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers.
What causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Understanding the underlying cause of cubital tunnel syndrome helps guide treatment and prevent recurrence. Several factors can contribute to the condition, including:
- Prolonged elbow flexion: activities that keep the elbow bent for long periods, such as using a phone or resting on armrests.
- Repetitive motions: repeated bending or leaning on the elbow can irritate the ulnar nerve.
Injury or trauma: a direct impact or fracture around the elbow can lead to nerve compression. - Anatomical variations: tight connective tissues or a shallow cubital tunnel may predispose certain individuals.
- Hypermobility: loose ligaments may allow the nerve to move out of its tunnel when the elbow bends, causing irritability and dysfunction.
Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Common symptoms include:
- Numbness or tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Weakness in the hand or difficulty gripping objects
- Pain on the inside of the elbow, especially with bending
- A “claw-like” deformity in severe cases due to muscle weakness
When any of these symptoms are present, early diagnosis and intervention are crucial in preventing further nerve damage.
Diagnosing Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
The Orthohealing Center is committed to offering a precise and personalized approach to care. An accurate diagnosis is essential to provide effective treatment.
Our team begins with a detailed medical history and physical examination, often including specific tests to evaluate nerve function and identify compression points. Advanced imaging such as diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound or electrodiagnostic nerve testing may also be utilized to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.
Nonsurgical Treatment for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
The Orthohealing Center’s approach focuses on restoring comfort and function while minimizing downtime. Our compassionate team is dedicated to helping people regain control of their lives with best-in-class, advanced, nonsurgical care.
Reference below for our innovative, nonsurgical offerings to alleviate the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome and promote healing.
- Platelet lysate and alpha 2 macroglobulin (A2M) therapies use concentrated growth factors and proteins from the patient’s own blood, injecting them into the sheath of the ulnar nerve to reduce inflammation and stimulate healing. If weakened ligaments are also contributing factors, PRP or prolotherapy can be administered to strengthen and improve their functionality.
- Nerve hydrodissection with 5% dextrose solution is ideal to free fibrotic bands or scar tissue from the nerve, restoring its ability to transmit nerve signals normally.
- Ultrasound-guided injections target the delivery of anti-inflammatory or regenerative agents to the precise area of nerve compression.
- Class IV laser therapy is a noninvasive modality aimed at improving circulation and promoting a healing environment.
