Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment in Dubai at Emirates Hospitals Group. Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a medical condition that occurs when there is compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. The ulnar nerve supplies sensation to the little finger and half of the ring finger, it also controls some small muscles in the hand.

The cubital tunnel is a narrow passageway on the inside of the elbow through which the ulnar nerve passes. When there is pressure or stretching of the nerve at this point, it can cause pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the affected hand and arm. At Emirates Hospitals Group, we are proud to have the best hand and wrist surgeons in Dubai, who are dedicated to providing expert diagnosis and treatment for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome. Our team uses the latest techniques to offer effective solutions, ensuring patients receive the highest level of care and achieve optimal results.

• Symptoms & Causes
• Treatment

Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

The symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome can vary depending on the severity of the condition and the degree of nerve damage. Some common symptoms include:

Numbness or Tingling: The most common symptom of cubital tunnel syndrome is numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers. This sensation may be intermittent or constant.

Weakness: Weakness in the hand or fingers, especially when gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks, may be a sign of cubital tunnel syndrome.

Pain: Pain in the elbow, forearm, or hand may be present in some cases of cubital tunnel syndrome. The pain may be sharp or dull and may worsen with certain activities or positions.

Loss of Coordination: Cubital tunnel syndrome can affect the coordination of the hand and fingers, making it difficult to perform certain tasks or movements.

Muscle Wasting: In severe cases of cubital tunnel syndrome, the muscles of the hand may begin to waste away, leading to a visible loss of muscle mass.

Common Causes of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel, which is located on the inside of the elbow. Some common causes of this pressure include:

Repetitive bending of the elbow: People who perform tasks that involve repetitive bending of the elbow, such as typing or using a computer mouse, are at a higher risk of developing cubital tunnel syndrome.

Prolonged pressure on the elbow: Resting the elbow on a hard surface for long periods of time, such as when sleeping or leaning on a desk, can put pressure on the ulnar nerve.

Trauma or Injury to the Elbow: An injury to the elbow, such as a dislocated or fractured elbow, can cause swelling or inflammation that puts pressure on the ulnar nerve.

Arthritis or Bone Spurs: Arthritis or bone spurs in the elbow can narrow the cubital tunnel and put pressure on the ulnar nerve.

Ganglion Cysts or Tumors: Ganglion cysts or tumors that develop near the cubital tunnel can put pressure on the ulnar nerve and cause cubital tunnel syndrome.

Anatomical Variations: Some people may have an abnormal or narrower cubital tunnel, which can increase the risk of developing cubital tunnel syndrome.

Diabetes: Diabetes can cause nerve damage and increase the risk of developing cubital tunnel syndrome.

Treatments for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome may depend on the severity of the condition and the underlying cause.
Some common treatments include:

Rest and Immobilization: Resting the elbow and avoiding activities that aggravate the condition can help relieve symptoms. Using a splint or brace to keep the elbow straight may also be recommended.

Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the muscles surrounding the elbow can help relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve and improve range of motion.

Anti-Inflammatory Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve. The procedure may involve removing bone spurs or other structures that are compressing the nerve, or relocating the nerve to a position where it is less likely to be compressed.

Lifestyle Modifications: Making adjustments to work or daily activities to reduce stress on the elbow, such as using an ergonomic keyboard or avoiding leaning on the elbow, can help prevent the condition from worsening.