When nerve compression from cubital tunnel syndrome is not treated in time, the person is at risk of muscle atrophy in the future. Don’t wait until it’s too late, at COPAC you will receive specialized medical care and innovative treatments for cubital tunnel syndrome.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a painful neuropathy that begins with compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve in the elbow. The ulnar nerve is one of the most important nerves in the arm, as it is responsible for providing mobility to certain muscles of the hand and forearm; as well as giving sensitivity to the little and ring fingers.
The ulnar nerve passes through the ulnar tunnel that is located under the medial epicondyle, this area lacks muscle protection so the nerve is exposed to blows and other injuries. This disorder (in the long term) can lead to muscle atrophy of the hand.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is usually caused by the sustained support of the elbow in flexion on hard surfaces during long working days or by performing repetitive flexion and extension movements with the elbow; A clear example can be seen in baseball pitchers, who during sports activity subject the medial ligaments to excessive loads that can lead to nerve injury.
Other common causes of cubital tunnel syndrome include:
Injuries or direct blows to the elbow.
Diseases that directly affect the joints, for example: rheumatoid arthritis or gout.
Previous surgeries on or around the ulnar nerve.
People with cubital tunnel syndrome may have both constant symptoms and symptoms that occur only when bending (flexing) the elbow. The rest of the signs associated with this neuropathy are:
In mild cases of cubital tunnel syndrome, symptoms may go away as the pressure on the elbow is taken off. In consultation, the specialist will evaluate your usual activities in order to identify what triggered the nerve irritation; After finding the answer, you might recommend:
Icing the affected elbow for 10 minutes (at least 3 times a day) helps the swelling go down.
Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory (over-the-counter) medicines are very helpful in controlling symptoms.
Often, specialists suggest the use of splints, elbow pads, splints, etc. to keep the elbow extended and relieve pain.
Physiotherapy exercises are great allies to preserve the strength, flexibility and range of motion of the joint.
Surgeries allow the compression of the nerve to be solved and nerve function to be completely restored. The techniques used in the surgical treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome are: cubital tunnel release, anterior ulnar nerve transposition, and medial epicondylectomy.
These tips will help you reduce your risk of cubital tunnel syndrome:
Avoid performing movements that involve repetitive bending and extension of the elbow.
Spend a couple of minutes daily performing stretching exercises with your arms and elbows.
Use proper techniques when practicing a sport.
Modify the spaces in your home and work so that you don't have the need to bend your elbow for a long time.
Watch your sleeping posture by trying to keep your arms extended most of the time.
