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Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the funny bone nerve (ulnar nerve) in the elbow has pressure applied to it or is stretched. This results in numbness or tingling in the fingers, pain in the forearm or weakness in the hand.

Causes

Pressing your elbow on a hard surface for an extended period of time can put pressure on the nerve, causing your fingers to fall asleep. Also, keeping the elbow bent for a long time, such as when sleeping, can overstretch the nerve. Performing task where the elbow is bent for a protracted period of time, such as speaking on the phone, can also cause cubital tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms

Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include:

  • Pain in the forearm
  • Loss of sensation
  • Tingling in the ring and small fingers
  • Weakness in the hand

Schedule an Appointment

Orthopedic surgeons at South Texas Health System Clinics can evaluate your condition and provide the required treatment.

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Treatments

The basic treatment is to avoid putting pressure on the nerve or overstretching it. Avoid leaning on your elbow or sleeping with your elbow bent.

If this does not relieve your symptoms, surgery may be needed to relieve the pressure on the nerve. This involves either releasing the nerve, moving it to the front of the elbow, or even removing a part of the bone.