What is cubital tunnel syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a compression of the ulnar nerve. It can cause tingling, numbness, pain and weakness in the hands. The ulnar nerve is the nerve that is knocked when someone hits their "funny bone". It runs in a tunnel on the inner aspect of the elbow known as the cubital tunnel.
How do you get cubital tunnel syndrome?
There are many causes for cubital tunnel syndrome. This includes repetitive elbow flexion exercises, leaning on the elbow, injuries to the elbow or arthritis of the elbow.
What are the symptoms and signs of cubital tunnel syndrome?
The classical signs of cubital tunnel syndrome are numbness or tingling to the little and ring fingers. This may occur at night and cause you to wake up and shake your hand. This may also occur during the day.
What is the treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome?
The first part of treatment is understanding the cause. We advise starting with wrapping a towel around the elbow at night. Other alternatives are anti-inflammatory medications. The surgery for this condition involves releasing the roof of the cubital tunnel
What is the recovery time from surgery?
Most patients return to their daily activities including driving within a few days after surgery. We recommend patients to keep the elbow clean and dry for 12 days and to avoid heavy lifting for 4 to 6 weeks.