Cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve at the elbow. It commonly causes numbness and tingling in the little finger and half of the ring finger, particularly when the elbow is bent. In more advanced cases, it can cause hand weakness, reduced grip and difficulty with fine movements. Dr. Vikash Singh provides assessment and treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome in Karachi, including non-surgical treatment and cubital tunnel surgery when required.
The ulnar nerve passes behind the inner side of the elbow through a narrow passage called the cubital tunnel. Pressure or stretching of the nerve in this area can cause the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms section
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms
Numbness or tingling in the little finger
Numbness or tingling in the ring finger
Pain or discomfort around the inner side of the elbow
Symptoms that become worse when the elbow remains bent
Weak grip
Difficulty with fine hand movements
Dropping objects
Hand weakness in advanced cases
Persistent numbness or tingling affecting the little finger and the adjacent half of the ring finger may be a sign of ulnar nerve compression at the elbow. Symptoms may become more noticeable while sleeping, talking on the phone or keeping the elbow bent for prolonged periods.
Prolonged or repeated elbow bending
Leaning on the elbow for long periods
Previous elbow injury or deformity
Narrowing of the cubital tunnel
Repetitive elbow movements
Pressure on the ulnar nerve
Diagnosis is based on the patient's symptoms and clinical examination. Depending on the severity and clinical findings, nerve conduction studies/EMG and imaging may be recommended to assess ulnar nerve function and identify other possible causes of hand numbness.
Surgery may be considered when symptoms are persistent or severe, when there is significant nerve compression, or when weakness and muscle wasting develop. The aim of surgery is to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve and prevent further nerve damage. Depending on the individual condition, surgical treatment may involve decompression of the ulnar nerve or another appropriate procedure.
Ulnar nerve decompression involves releasing structures that are compressing the nerve around the elbow. The appropriate surgical technique depends on the location and severity of compression and the patient's clinical findings.
What are the first symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?
Early symptoms commonly include numbness and tingling in the little and ring fingers, particularly when the elbow is bent.
Can cubital tunnel syndrome cause hand weakness?
Yes. More advanced ulnar nerve compression can cause weakness of the hand and difficulty with gripping or fine movements.
When is cubital tunnel surgery needed?
Surgery may be considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate non-surgical treatment, when nerve compression is significant, or when there is weakness or other evidence of progressive nerve dysfunction.
Where can I get cubital tunnel treatment in Karachi?
Dr. Vikash Singh provides assessment and treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome and ulnar nerve compression in Karachi.
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Dr. Vikash Singh
FCPS (Orthopaedic Surgery) | MRCS (Edinburgh) | CHPE (DUHS)
Fellowships & Advanced Training
AO-Spine Fellowship – Germany
Foot & Ankle Fellowship – Germany
Ilizarov ASAMI Fellowship – Italy
AO-Trauma Fellowship – UK
Arthroplasty Fellowship – Karachi
All pictures and videos displayed on this website represent cases treated and operated by Dr Vikash Singh.
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