Elbow Pain Might be Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Most people have heard of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – the common cause of wrist pain believed to be caused by repetitive injuries such as working on a keyboard or operating machinery. But any people have never heard of a related condition called “Cubital Tunnel Syndrome”
Cubital tunnel syndrome causes intense pain similar to the sensation of hitting your “funny bone” in your elbow. But Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is no laughing matter. In fact it is believed that Cubital Tunnel Syndrome affects as many people as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – from 2% to 6% of adults – but is just less widely reported.
What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
The ulnar nerve passes through the “cubital tunnel” made of muscle, ligament, and bone on the inside of the elbow. The ulnar nerve starts in the side of your neck, crosses the elbow and ends in your fingers. The ulnar nerve is actually the same nerve that causes “funny bone” when you strike your elbow.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes injured and gets inflamed, swollen, and irritated.
What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome may caused by a variety of things. And in some cases, the cause is not known.
Some of the most common cause of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include:
- Repeatedly bending the elbows when pulling, reaching, or lifting,
- Leaning on the elbow frequently
- Physical injury to the elbow area
- Arthritis
- Bone spurs
- Previous fractures or dislocations of the elbow can also cause cubital tunnel syndrome. What are the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?
What are the Symptoms Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
The pain and other symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome may seem like other health conditions or problems, so it often frequently is misdiagnosed. It is often mistaken for golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) and other disorders.
The most common symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include:
- Numbness or tingling in the hand, ring finger and/or little finger, especially when the elbow is bent
- Numbness and tingling at night
- Hand pain
- Weakness in grip
- Clumsiness due to muscle weakness
- Aching pain on the inside of the elbow
How is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Diagnosed?
A hand and arm specialist like Dr. Uzma Rehman in Shelby Township, MI is the best medical professional to diagnose Cubital Tunnel Syndrome . She will conduct a complete medical history and physical examination, as well as conduct diagnostic tests for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.
Diagnotic test for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome may include:
- Nerve conduction test
- Electromyogram (EMG)
- X-ray
How is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treated?
The most effective treatment for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is stopping or modifying the activity that is creating the problem, such as repeatedly bending the elbow.
Other treatments for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include:
- A splint or foam elbow brace worn at night
- Using an elbow pad
- Anti-inflammatory medicines
- Physical therapy
- Nerve gliding exercises
- Steroid injections
- Surgery (when other treatments don’t work)
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Doctor – Shelby Township
If you think you may be suffering from Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, contact Shelby Township hand specialist Dr. Rehman for a comprehensive evaluation and consultation. She will determine whether Cubital Tunnel Syndrome or another problem is causing your elbow pain – and offer the best treatment protocol for rapid recovery.
As with any medical condition of the hand, wrist or arm, early detection, and a prevention or treatment plan is the most effective way to combat the effects of conditions like Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.
Call Dr. Rehman today to schedule an office visit – and take the first step toward relief from your elbow pain!
