May 24, 2022

What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

Patients with Cubital Tunnel Syndrome often complain of sharp or aching pain on the inner aspect of the elbow, which may radiate up towards the shoulder or down to the fingertips.  These patients also commonly report numbness and tingling radiating into the little and ring fingers. 

The Cubital Tunnel is formed between the medial epicondyle of the humerus (or upper arm bone) and the olecranon of the ulna (or elbow). The Cubital Tunnel has the most space when the elbow is straight.  As the elbow bends, the shape from the tunnel changes from round to oval, decreasing the overall area and increasing pressure in the tunnel.

This condition is caused when the ulnar nerve is subject to increased compression, stretch or friction.  Symptoms tend to increase during sleep or any activity involving a bent elbow greater than 90 degrees such as talking on a phone.  The symptoms can vary from intermittent in nature to gradually more constant and severe.  Other concerns include weakness with grip and little finger usage, discomfort, and hypersensitivity.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is typically diagnosed through an assessment using special tests and clinically confirmed by a nerve conduction study.

Treatment may include, heat, therapeutic ultrasound, soft tissue massage, slow and long duration stretching, gentle nerve glides, orthoses (splinting), and avoidance of bending the elbow greater than 90 degrees until the symptoms settle.