Ulnar Nerve Injury: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
An ulnar nerve injury, also called ulnar neuropathy, affects the nerve that runs from the shoulder to the hand. This nerve controls movement and sensation in the forearm and hand, especially the ring and little fingers.
Injuries can occur at different levels of the arm. At the upper arm level, causes include direct trauma, compression, or repetitive motion. Symptoms often include pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand, sometimes leading to difficulty gripping objects or the development of a claw-like hand position.
Diagnosis may involve a physical exam, nerve conduction studies, and imaging. Treatment often begins with rest, splinting, and physical therapy. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Early treatment is important to prevent permanent nerve damage and preserve hand function.
