We can all remember a time (or several) when we banged our elbow against a chair or something and felt that specifically horrible ringing pain from our “funny bone.” And although that specific injury may be rare, pain caused by that same nerve—the ulnar nerve—may not be as rare as you think.
Pressure on the ulnar nerve causes cubital tunnel syndrome, which can be as debilitating as the similar-sounding carpal tunnel syndrome that afflicts desk workers. Fortunately, there are several options for treatment both under the guidance of a physical therapist or even at home on your own.
What is cubital tunnel syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition that arises when the ulnar nerve—running from the neck down to the hand—becomes compressed or irritated. This nerve passes through a narrow channel called the cubital tunnel, located at the inside of the elbow near the “bottom” of the joint as you hold your arms out straight in front of you.
When compressed, the nerve can cause pain, tingling, or numbness, particularly in the elbow, forearm, and fingers.
What does cubital tunnel syndrome feel like?
People with cubital tunnel syndrome might notice:
- A tingling or “pins and needles” sensation in the ring and little fingers
- Numbness in the elbow, forearm, or fingers
- Aching or painful sensations along the inside of the elbow
- Weak grip strength, difficulty holding objects, or a sense that your hand “falls asleep”
While these symptoms may seem similar to the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, cubital tunnel primarily affects the elbow and the outer fingers (ring and pinky), unlike carpal tunnel which affects the wrist and inner fingers (thumb, index, and middle).
What causes cubital tunnel syndrome?
Several factors can contribute to cubital tunnel syndrome, including daily habits, repetitive motion, or even certain medical conditions. Knowing exactly what factors are at play with your specific experience of pain is the key to getting treatment that really helps. Certain risk factors that you would discuss with a physical therapist include:
- Frequent pressure on the elbow
- Constant tension from certain postures (leaning on an office chair, holding your phone or other device for long periods, sleeping with a bent elbow)
- Repetitive elbow motion
- Anatomical risk factors
- Previous elbow injury/surgery
Because people use their elbows constantly every day, it can be hard to pin down the specific cause of your pain, especially if there are multiple causes contributing to it. That’s why we always recommend talking to a health professional about your symptoms and lifestyle for the most accurate diagnosis prior to trying at-home remedies that may not work or may make the condition worse.
Cubital tunnel syndrome treatment
There are many different options for cubital tunnel treatment these days, with only the most severe cases benefitting from an invasive procedure. Many people can get through the worst of their symptoms with rest, ice, and a few behavioral changes as the pain goes away on its own.
If it’s been a week or more with no change, however, our physical therapists can give personal treatment recommendations that may include the following:
- Elbow brace
- Nerve gliding therapy (cubital tunnel exercises)
- Hand therapy
- Ergonomic assessment
- Movement recommendations
Elbow pain treatments at Back in Motion
No one should have to live with persistent elbow pain. Knowing what cubital tunnel syndrome is, understanding its causes, and considering available treatments are key steps to long-lasting recovery.
Start a conversation with our team of elbow pain specialists by calling one of our Maine clinics near you or by requesting an appointment online today.
