Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve (or “funny bone”) that passes through the bony groove behind the inner part of the elbow becomes compressed or irritated by injury or overuse.

Common in weightlifters and pitchers, Cubital Tunnel Syndromes can include numbness and tingling in the pinky and ring fingers that worsens when the elbow is bent, as well as weakness in the hand.

Conservative treatment includes intermittent splinting of the elbow so that it remains less bent for a set period of time (usually at night) and anti-inflammatory medication.

More severe or longstanding instances indicate surgery to decompress the nerve in order to avoid loss of partial, permanent sensation and strength in the hand and wrist.