Ulnar nerve compression (cubital tunnel)

Overview

Long-term pressure can weaken hand muscles and make fine tasks clumsy.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Numb ring and little fingers
• Numb or tingly pinky and ring finger

Less common

• Weak grip
• Clumsy hand

When to get medical care

Causes

Pressure or stretch on the nerve.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Leaning on elbows
• Past elbow injury

Diagnosis

A clinician examines.

Questions you may be asked

• Habits like leaning on elbows

The exam

Tapping the nerve and testing grip.

Tests

Tests, if needed:

• Nerve test (EMG):

Treatment

Ease pressure on the nerve.

Self-care

• Don't lean on your elbows
• Keep the elbow straighter at night (a towel wrap helps)
• Use a headset for long calls
• Pad hard armrests

Surgery if weakness or symptoms persist.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Avoid long elbow bending

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a neurologist (brain and nerve doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually improves with changes.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I need a nerve test?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Ulnar nerve compression (cubital tunnel)