Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Cubital tunnel syndrome is increased pressure on the nerves that lie on the surface of the skin, namely around the elbows.
To prevent this condition, don’t rest your elbows on hard surfaces too often. Also, avoid bending your elbows for long periods of time. For example, when calling or sleeping with your hands under the pillow.
If not addressed immediately, the strength of the hand grip will decrease and numbness will occur in the area of the little finger and ring finger.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
Early symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include the following:
- Pain and stiffness in the elbow area
- Tingling and stiffness in the little finger and ring finger
In the next phase, more severe symptoms may occur, such as:
- Weakness in the hands, especially the little finger and ring finger
- Decreased ability to pinch with the thumb and forefinger
- Decreased ability to grip
- Loss of muscle mass in the hands
- Claw-like hand deformity
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Reason
Cubital tunnel syndrome can be caused by a number of conditions, including:
- Excessive leaning on the elbows, especially on hard surfaces.
- Bending your elbows for too long, for example when making a phone call or sleeping with your hands under the pillow
Sometimes, this syndrome results from abnormal bone growth in the elbow area or from physical activity that increases pressure on the nerves.
Diagnosis
Cubital tunnel syndrome can be detected through a physical exam. There is also an electromyography test, a procedure in which electrodes are placed into the muscle and skin. This method is done to confirm the diagnosis, identify areas of nerve damage, and determine the severity of the condition.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment
If cubital tunnel syndrome is mild, you may undergo physical therapy, such as:
- Avoid pressing the elbows during daily activities
- Use protectors for elbows during daily activities
- Splint the elbow at night so it doesn’t bend too much during sleep
In addition, the doctor will advise the patient to get enough rest, prescribe painkillers, give injections, to surgery if needed.
Surgery may be needed for more severe cases of nerve compression, or if none of the above methods work. This aims to relieve pressure on the nerves.