Cubital Tunnel Syndrome 

Treating Cubital Tunnel Syndrome in Central Indiana

If you’ve noticed persistent numbness, tingling or weakness in your hand, especially affecting your ring and pinky fingers, cubital tunnel syndrome could be the underlying cause. This condition involves pressure on the ulnar nerve (known as the funny bone nerve) and can make everyday tasks such as holding a phone or resting your arm uncomfortable. The ulnar nerve plays an important role in hand movement and sensation. When compressed, it can impact your quality of life. Fortunately, Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics offers expert care for cubital tunnel syndrome across Central Indiana. Explore these conditions, causes, symptoms, diagnosis and the treatment options available.  

What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?  

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome happens when the ulnar nerve gets compressed or stretched near the elbow. This can lead to tingling or numbness, especially on the side of the hand with the ring and pinky fingers. Some people also feel pain in their forearms or notice weakness in their hand. The ulnar nerve travels through a small groove on the inside part of the elbow, closest to your body.   

“If you are experiencing numbness or tingling in your hand, do not ignore it. These symptoms can be signs of nerve compression, and they may worsen over time if left untreated. Seeking medical attention early can help prevent further damage. Fortunately, surgery is not always necessary. Many patients can find relief through treatments such as splinting, physical therapy or medication, “ says Dr. Dale Snead, an orthopedic surgeon specializing in upper extremity injuries.  

  What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?  

There are several reasons why cubital tunnel syndrome can happen:  

• Compression: The ulnar nerve doesn’t have a lot of protection, so putting pressure on it, like leaning your elbow on an armrest, can lead to tingling, numbness or a dull feeling in your hand. For many people, changing positions will help the feeling go away, but for others, the symptoms stick around.   

• Stretching: Bending your elbow for a long time can stretch the nerve behind it. This often happens when holding a phone, reading a book or sleeping with your arm bent. This can irritate the nerve.   

• Anatomy: In some people, the ulnar nerve may move out of its groove when the elbow bends and straightens, causing irritation. Sometimes the tissue around the nerve thickens or an extra muscle develops over it, which can interfere with how the nerve works. Things like a cyst, bone spurs from arthritis or swelling from rheumatoid arthritis can also add pressure. Tight ligaments near the tunnel can also be a cause.   

• Injury: A direct hit to the elbow, a fracture, puncture wounds or internal bleeding can all affect the nerve.  

• Other Medical Conditions: Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes can also increase the risk of developing cubital tunnel syndrome.  

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?  

• Common symptoms include:   

• Numbness or tingling, especially in the pinky and part of the ring finger.   

• Pain or aching on the inside of the forearm or elbow.   

• Weakness in the hand.  

• Difficulty with tasks that require fine motor skills.   

•  This condition typically doesn’t cause numbness in the thumb, index or middle fingers. If those areas are affected, a different nerve may be involved. As symptoms worsen, you may experience hand clumsiness or muscle weakness in the hand, particularly in the muscles that spread the fingers or allow you to pinch things.  

The Risk Factors of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome   

Some people are at a higher risk of developing cubital tunnel syndrome than others. If any of the following factors apply to you, be vigilant for cubital tunnel syndrome symptoms.   

• Elbow Positioning: Regularly leaning on your elbows or keeping them bent for long periods, such as while sleeping or using a phone.   

• Previous Injuries: A past fracture or dislocation near the elbow.  

• Arthritis: Inflammatory conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can lead to joint swelling or bone changes   

• Bone Spurs: Overgrowth of bone in the elbow joint can narrow the space where the ulnar nerve travels.   

• Anatomical Differences: In some people, the ulnar nerve moves or “snaps” over the bone during elbow movement, which can irritate the nerve and increase the risk.  

How is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?  

Physicians will typically diagnose cubital tunnel syndrome by reviewing your symptoms and performing a physical examination. They will ask where the numbness or tingling occurs and look for things that suggest ulnar nerve compression.   

What are the Treatment Options for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?  

There are non-surgical and surgical options to help suppress symptoms. Examples of non-surgical treatment include avoiding activities that cause numbness/tingling, such as leaning on the elbow and bent elbow activities. Wearing a night splint can be beneficial in suppressing symptoms, as well as physical therapy to improve nerve mobility and reduce irritation. If symptoms are severe or do not improve, surgery may be recommended. Some symptoms may remain or take longer to improve, depending on your case. Consulting with a Physician is the best way to determine a treatment plan that’s right for you.   

“Sometimes, if symptoms have been short-lived, we may begin with conservative treatment such as splinting. However, if symptoms are persistent or worsening, we may recommend a more proactive approach to prevent long-term damage. Early intervention is key to preserving hand function and minimizing the risk of permanent injury,” says Dr. Dale Snead.  

Request an Appointment Today  

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can be painful, and treatment should be sought. The team at Forté Sports Medicine and Orthopedics provides consultation to help you work toward a pain-free life in our Carmel, Greenwood, Mooresville, Noblesville and Tipton offices. Contact us today  for a customized treatment plan.