Slocum Orthopedics evaluates and treats Cubital Tunnel Syndrome for patients across Eugene, Springfield, and the southern Willamette Valley. Our hand and wrist specialists help patients understand the cause of elbow-related nerve symptoms while providing personalized treatment options to relieve numbness, tingling, pain, and weakness.
Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed at the elbow. The ulnar nerve travels through a narrow space on the inside of the elbow called the cubital tunnel. This is the same nerve commonly referred to as the “funny bone.” When the ulnar nerve becomes irritated, compressed, or restricted within the cubital tunnel, it can interfere with normal nerve function.
The most common symptoms involve the ring and little fingers, hand strength, and pain that travels from the elbow into the hand. Patients may experience numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers, weakness in the hand, difficulty performing fine motor tasks such as writing or gripping small objects, and pain that radiates from the inside of the elbow into the hand.
Symptoms are often more noticeable when the elbow remains bent for long periods or when pressure is placed on the inside of the elbow.
Diagnosis of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Diagnosis begins with a physical examination of the upper extremity and a review of your symptoms and health history.
Additional testing may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the severity of nerve compression.
Nerve Conduction Study
A nerve conduction study measures how quickly electrical signals travel through the ulnar nerve. Slower signal transmission may help identify the location and severity of nerve compression.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound imaging may be used to evaluate swelling of the affected ulnar nerve and provide additional information about the area of compression.
Medical Management of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Many patients experience symptom improvement with nonsurgical treatment. The goal of treatment is to reduce pressure on the ulnar nerve and minimize positions or activities that worsen symptoms.
Activity Modification
Learning ways to avoid prolonged pressure on the elbow and ulnar nerve may help reduce irritation and improve symptoms.
Bracing
Holding the elbow in a straighter position during sleep may help reduce pressure on the nerve. This may be accomplished with a brace, towel, or elbow pad.
Positioning
Keeping the arms in a more extended position during work, hobbies, and sleep may help reduce pressure on the elbow and ulnar nerve.
When Surgery is Considered
If symptoms continue despite nonsurgical treatment or begin to affect hand strength and function, cubital tunnel release may be recommended.
The procedure relieves pressure on the ulnar nerve by releasing the tight bands of tissue that compress it. In some patients, the nerve may also be moved forward if it shifts out of place during elbow motion.
Why Patients in Eugene Turn to Slocum for Hand & Wrist Care
For more than 80 years, Slocum Orthopedics has helped keep the Eugene–Springfield community moving. Our hand and wrist specialists provide comprehensive care for common and complex conditions affecting the fingers, hand, wrist, elbow, and upper extremity, supported by on-site imaging, therapy, and orthopedic surgical care.
