Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, one of the three main nerves of the hand, becomes compressed or entrapped at the elbow. This compression can result from tight surrounding muscles, connective tissue, or bony outgrowths.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Patients with cubital tunnel syndrome often experience pain, tingling, or loss of sensation in the little finger and ring finger. Muscle weakness in the hand may also occur. During diagnosis, a careful examination is performed, and patients may feel tingling that radiates from the elbow down to the hands when the nerve at the elbow is gently tapped. It is important to confirm that the compression is occurring at the elbow joint, rather than at the neck or further down towards the hand.

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Treatment Options

• Non-Surgical Treatment: Initial treatment options may include non-surgical methods such as a night splint for the elbow and a low-dose steroid injection into the area around the nerve.
• Surgical Treatment: If non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be necessary. The procedure, known as a cubital tunnel release, involves making a small incision on the inside of the elbow to release any tight structures such as bony outgrowths, muscles, or other soft tissue. This surgery is typically performed as a day procedure, and in some cases, under local anaesthetic, allowing the patient to remain awake but pain-free.

Recovery and Post-Surgery Care

After surgery, patients can usually go home the same day. A follow-up appointment is scheduled two weeks later for a wound check. This operation is generally quite successful, with most patients experiencing relief from their symptoms shortly after surgery. However, it may take a few months for all symptoms to fully resolve.