Cubital tunnel syndrome is the nerve compression on the inner side of the elbow. A nerve named the ulnar nerve is compressed under the inner bony projection of the elbow, named as medial epicondyle. The ulnar nerve passes through a tunnel made by tissues and bone where it gets compressed in this syndrome. The patient feels pain in the hand and on the inner side of the elbow which leads to tingling and muscle weakness if not treated well in time. This article tells in detail about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome in Noida by Dr. Sumit Badhwar. 

Reasons behind the occurrence of cubital tunnel syndrome

• Trauma to the inner side of the elbow
• Inflammation in the nerve leads to swelling which ultimately prevents the smooth gliding of the nerve thereby compressing it further
• Keeping your elbows bent for a long period of time, such as the wrong posture while working on the computer
• Sleeping with your elbow bent 
• Putting pressure on your bent elbow for a long time period
• Arthritis 
• Bone Spur (a pointed bony projection that pinches or compresses the nerve)

Cubital Tunnel Symptoms

• Pain in the Hand and on the inside of the forearm or elbow
• Numbness in the inner side of the forearm and little, half ring finger
• Tingling sensation 
• Pain and tingling is present on both sides of the hand
• Feeling of fingers falling asleep after bending the elbow 
• Hand Grip weakens and fine movements are affected in severe and untreated cases of cubital tunnel syndrome
• Muscle wasting or flattening of muscle bulk in hands can also occur in severe cases 

How the Diagnosis of cubital tunnel syndrome is made?

• Physical examination and symptoms give a fair idea to the orthopedic doctor about the disease. 
• X-ray – X-ray imaging may rule out other diseases or find out the cause of cubital tunnel syndrome such as bone spurs etc.
• EMG – Electromyography tells about the conditions of muscles that the ulnar nerve supplies.
• NCV studies or Nerve Conduction Velocity – This test finds out if the nerve is functioning well or not. The speed of the signal slows down in terms of any compression in the nerve. 

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment Options 

Non-Surgical Treatment Options 

• Rest – the overuse activity or the bending of the elbow is immediately stopped to avoid further irritation of the nerve. 
• Braces – Wrist braces, elbow splints, or elbow cushions play important role in providing the perfect environment for nerve healing. They also prevent any further damage to the nerve.
• Medication – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are given in most cases to ease the symptoms like swelling, pain, and redness.
• Physical Therapy – Muscle strengthening and Nerve gliding exercises are taught to the patient to ensure faster recovery and full strength in the muscles. 
• Lifestyle Changes – changing the position of elbows while working on the computer, avoiding the habit of keeping the elbows bent while sleeping 

Surgical Treatment Options for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Surgical treatment is given only in severe cases or if the non-surgical measures fail to provide any relief to the patient.

• Cubital Tunnel Release – The pressure on the nerve is released by ligating the ligament over it. This relieves any mild to moderate pressure on the nerve. 
• Nerve Position Change – In this surgical procedure the nerve is transferred to the front of the elbow so that it doesn’t have to stretch behind it. 
• Bone Removal/ medial epicondylectomy – the small piece of bone is removed so that the nerve can glide and stretch smoothly. 

If you have any such symptoms or you are seeking medical advice for any other orthopedic problem, then you can book an appointment with the best orthopedic doctor in Noida, Dr. Sumit Badhwar by clicking here.