Cubital tunnel syndrome (Ulna nerve entrapment)
What is cubital tunnel syndrome ?
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulna nerve becomes compressed or irritated at the elbow. It can cause numbness and tingling in the hand and aching around the inside of the elbow. Patients often describe that symptoms feels like “I have hit my funny bone”.
The ulna nerve is one of 3 major nerves that travel down the arm, travelling down from the neck to the hand. Compression of the nerve can occur around the neck, elbow and hand. The most common site of compression is around the elbow.
Diagnosis
A careful history and examination will give the clinician the majority of the details to make the diagnosis. Nerve conduction studies can be performed to measure how well signals are travelling through the nerves and identify areas of entrapment.
Treatment
Non surgical treatments include change in activities that may be irritating the nerve or bracing.
If the non surgical treatments fail to improve symptoms and small operation can be performed to release the compression around the ulna nerve. The surgery takes only 20 minutes and is performed under general or regional anaesthetic.
The image above is taken during the surgical release of a compressed ulna nerve at the elbow. The incision is around 10-15 cm and is closed using dissolving sutures. The scar normally heals, and eventually fades to a thin line over 12 months.
Recovering after cubital tunnel surgery
After surgery a sling is required for 2 weeks while in bed and when outdoors to aid wound healing around the elbow
Avoid getting the wound wet until reviewed at 10-14 days
Rehabilitation with physio starts immediately
Driving is not advised for around 4-6 weeks following surgery
Returning to work depends on the nature of your job - (office based 2-4 weeks / manual work 6-8 weeks)
No contact sports or heavy lifting for 3 months following surgery