CUBITAL TUNNEL RELEASE
If you suffer from chronic pain or weakness related to cubital tunnel syndrome, don’t hesitate to Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists.
What is Cutibal Tunnel Release
While not as well known as Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can cause severe pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hands and arms.
The common cause between both of these syndromes involves some sort of pressure causing compression on a nerve in the arm or elbow. In the majority of cases, patients can manage cubital tunnel syndrome with simple conservative treatments, while more severe cases may still require surgery to return to normalcy.
What Causes Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome, also known as ulnar neuropathy to Hand and Wrist Specialists, arises from an increased pressure on the ulnar nerve, which passes through the small hollow of the elbow commonly known as the “funny bone.” Patient have a higher risk of developing Cubital Tunnel Syndrome if they:
- Lean on their elbow often, especially on hard surfaces
- Leave the elbow bent for prolonged periods of time, such as while talking on the phone or sleeping with the arm left bent under the pillow
In some cases, cubital tunnel syndrome can result from an abnormal growth of bone in the elbow or from intense physical activity such as sports that rely on throwing. Baseball pitchers, for example, have an increased risk of ulnar neuropathy due to the twisting motion required to throw certain pitches.
Early symptoms of ulnar neuropathy include:
- Pain and numbness in the elbow
- Tingling in the hand, wrist and fingers
If cubital tunnel syndrome advances, symptoms can also include:
- Weakness in the fingers
- An inability or decreased ability to pinch the thumb and pinky finger together
- A weakened hand grip
- Muscle loss in the hand
- Claw-like deformity in the hand
Hand and Wrist specialists may order tests such as a nerve conduction study and a test called electromyography. During an Electromyography procedure, specialists place electrodes into muscles and on the skin to measure the health of muscles and the nerve cells that control them, confirm the diagnosis, identify the area of nerve damage, and determine the severity of the condition.
Cubital Tunnel Release Procedure
During a Cubital Tunnel Release surgery, Upper Extremity Specialists surgically part the ligament surface of the cubital tunnel. This allows the tunnel to widen and release pressure from the nerve.
Afterwards, new tissue will grow over the divide in the ligaments as they heal. Once the ligaments fully heal, the tunnel will have more overall space for the ulnar nerve, removing the source of impingement.
Elbow specialists will likely consider Cubital Tunnel Release surgery for mild to moderate cases of nerve compression where the nerve stays in place when bent. Otherwise, surgeons may decide on an Ulnar Nerve Transposition.
Cubital Tunnel Release Recovery
Recovering from cubital tunnel release surgery involves a structured approach to ensure effective healing and restore arm function. After the procedure, which alleviates pressure on the ulnar nerve, patients typically wear a splint or bandage to protect the elbow and minimize movement. Initial discomfort and swelling around the surgical site are common, and it’s important to follow the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions to manage these symptoms.
Patients should keep the arm elevated and apply ice packs to reduce swelling. Gradually, under the guidance of a healthcare professional, patients can begin gentle range-of-motion exercises to prevent stiffness and improve mobility. Physical therapy may also be recommended to strengthen the muscles and restore full function to the arm.
Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon monitor the progress of recovery and address any concerns. With proper care and adherence to rehabilitation protocols, most patients can expect significant improvement in symptoms, including reduced pain, tingling, and numbness, leading to better overall arm function.
If you would like to speak to one of our Upper Extremity Specialists, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.
