Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (Ulnar Nerve Compression)

What is the Cubital Tunnel?

The cubital tunnel is a narrow passage on the inside of the elbow through which the ulnar nerve (“funny bone nerve”) travels.

What is This Condition?

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed or irritated as it passes through the tunnel.

What are the Symptoms?

• Numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers

• Weakness in grip or finger coordination

• Pain on the inside of the elbow, sometimes radiating to the hand

• Symptoms often worsen with prolonged bending of the elbow (like holding a phone)

What Causes It?

• Repetitive elbow bending or leaning on the elbow

• Thickened tissue or tight tunnel structures

• Prior elbow injury or arthritis

• Sometimes no clear cause

How is It Diagnosed?

• Exam: tapping the nerve reproduces tingling (Tinel’s sign)

• Nerve conduction studies/EMG: confirm slowing of signals through the nerve

How is It Treated?

Non-surgical:

• Avoid prolonged elbow bending and direct pressure

• Night splinting to keep the elbow straight

• NSAIDs for irritation

Surgical:

• Ulnar nerve release or transposition (moving the nerve to a less tight position) if symptoms persist or if muscle weakness develops

Learn more from AAOS (OrthoInfo):

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/ulnar-nerve-entrapment-at-the-elbow/