Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Cubital tunnel syndrome refers to the compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve within a tunnel situated on the inner side of the elbow, commonly known as the “funny bone” area. The ulnar nerve is responsible for providing sensation to the little finger and a portion of the ring finger, as well as powering small hand muscles.
Early symptoms typically involve numbness or tingling sensations in the little and ring fingers, often occurring intermittently but potentially progressing to constant numbness over time. Certain activities, such as leaning on the elbow or keeping it bent (e.g., while using a telephone), may exacerbate symptoms. Habitually sleeping with a bent elbow can also worsen symptoms.
As the condition advances, constant numbness may ensue, accompanied by hand weakness. Severe cases may exhibit visible muscle loss, particularly noticeable on the back of the hand between the thumb and first finger, resulting in diminished strength and dexterity.
While most cases of cubital tunnel syndrome arise without a discernible cause, narrowing of the tunnel may occur due to elbow joint arthritis or prior injury.
Treatment strategies aim to alleviate symptoms and prevent progression:
Cubital tunnel surgery De surgery is a well known operation with good outcomes. It is usually performed as a day case under general anaesthesia. For those patients who also have other issues such as carpal tunnel syndrome, surgery may be combined into a single procedure. However, as for any surgery, it can uncommonly be complicated by infection, bleeding, or long term recurrence of symptoms. The surgery should be performed by an experienced and well trained surgeon to avoid problems with nerve instability following surgery, injury to overlying skin nerves, or the ulnar nerve itself.
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