Cubital tunnel syndrome is a nerve-related condition that can cause pain throughout the arm, hand, and fingers. While it is uncomfortable, it can be successfully treated with cubital tunnel release.
What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome affects the ulnar nerve, which runs through the cubital tunnel and is often called the “funny bone nerve.” The tunnel is a tube of bone, muscle, and ligament located in the elbow. When it is damaged or the ulnar nerve is compressed, it causes swelling and discomfort in the elbow, forearm, hand, and fingers.Â
What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
A variety of factors can lead to the development of cubital tunnel syndrome, such as:
- Injury to the elbow area, such as a fracture or dislocation
- Frequently bending the elbow, often with repeated pulling or lifting movements
- Bone spurs
- Arthritis
- Anatomical factors, such as an ulnar nerve that deviates from its normal position
What Are the Symptoms?
It is characterized by pain along the ulnar nerve. Other symptoms include:
- Numbness and tingling, mainly in the hand and ring or small finger
- This symptom most often occurs when the arm is bent.
- Muscle weakness in the arm and hand
- Pain and aching on the inside of the elbow
How Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treated?
The release is a surgical procedure that provides long-lasting relief from the symptoms. We offer this procedure here at Julian Plastic Surgery in Tampa.
Your doctor will complete ulnar nerve decompression and, if needed, a transposition of the ulnar nerve. This is usually completed with a minimally invasive endoscopic approach. Using a small incision and a camera we are able to visualize the nerve and release the tissue causing the compression, taking strain off of the nerve.Â
If a nerve transposition is needed, your doctor will expand the incision to move and stabilize the nerve at the front of the bone inside the elbow.
Your doctor will close the incision with sutures, then dress the elbow for protection. You’ll be advised to avoid pushing, pulling, or lifting motions with the affected arm for a month after treatment. About two to three months after treatment, you’ll likely be able to use your arm and elbow normally. Contact us today to speak with a member of our team and schedule an appointment today. Call Today 352-667-6238