Cubital Tunnel Syndrome – Ulnar Nerve Entrapment: Anatomy, Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome – Ulnar Nerve Entrapment?

Cubital tunnel syndrome, also known as ulnar nerve entrapment, affects the ulnar nerve that travels from the neck to the pinky finger side of the hand and is one of three main nerves located in the arm.  The ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated due to the fact that the nerve runs through a narrow space at the elbow with very little soft tissue to protect it.  

Anatomy of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Compression on the nerve causes numbness or pain in the elbow, hand, wrist, or fingers.  The cubital tunnel, through which the ulnar nerve travels, is at the elbow under the medial epicondyle, and it is a common site of nerve restriction.  If the nerve is compressed for a prolonged period of time, the muscles of the hand can irreversibly atrophy.  A few preventative measures that you can take in order to avoid cubital tunnel syndrome include taking frequent breaks during activities that involve repeated bending of the elbow, avoid compression of the elbow joint (during sleep or driving with arm resting out of the window), and avoid keeping the elbow bent for long periods of time. 

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms

1. Numbness or pain in the elbow, wrist, fingers, hand
2. Tingling (falling asleep) in the ring finger and pinky finger
3. Weak grip 
4. Less coordinated finger movements

Common Causes of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

1. Keeping the elbow bent for long periods
2. Repetitive bending of the elbow
3. prolonged pressure placed on the nerve
4. Fluid build up in the elbow
5. Prior fracture or dislocation of the elbow
6. Cysts or swelling at or near the elbow

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

ASTR treats cubital tunnel syndrome in a gentle, effective, and natural way by addressing muscle imbalances, scar tissue, trigger points, fascia restrictions, inflammation, posture, body mechanics which are often the source of the pain. ASTR takes a holistic approach to address the root causes of pain, not just the symptoms. ASTR treatment can be done at home for cubital tunnel syndrome.