Chapter 1: What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition that affects the ulnar nerve, often causing tingling and numbness in the hands. Recently, I visited my doctor to discuss various health concerns, and he diagnosed me with this syndrome in both arms.

During our appointment, I mentioned that I frequently experience tingling sensations in my fingers, almost as if they are falling asleep. The doctor performed some tests; when he tapped the underside of my wrist, I felt no tingling in my thumb or the first two fingers, indicating that I do not have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, which was a relief.

However, when he pressed on the inside of my elbow, I felt a sharp twinge shooting down into my pinky and ring fingers—a sensation that occurred in both arms. He advised me to avoid bending my elbows, which posed a challenge given my daily activities. I write regularly, spend a lot of time on my phone and laptop, and even crochet, which I enjoy immensely. Additionally, I tend to sleep with my arms bent, often with one hand under my pillow.

I have spent most of my career working at a computer, so the thought of keeping my elbows straight for an extended period seems daunting. I've also realized that I can’t comfortably rest my elbows on the table anymore without feeling discomfort.

How am I supposed to stop bending my elbows? The doctor suggested that many patients find relief by wearing an arm brace to keep their elbows straight, either during the day or while sleeping. However, the idea of wearing a brace indefinitely is not appealing to me.

He mentioned that non-surgical treatments for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome are available, including:

• Regularly resting and straightening the arm and elbow.
• Applying cold compresses to the affected area multiple times a day.
• Using over-the-counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Ibuprofen.

I am advised to maintain straight elbows for a couple of weeks to evaluate if this approach is effective. If not, a follow-up appointment may be necessary, where a nerve test can determine if surgical intervention is required.

Surgery involves a minimally invasive procedure to reposition the nerve to alleviate compression, and it’s usually an outpatient operation, allowing you to return home the same day. Personally, I’m tempted to pursue surgery right away because keeping my elbows straight for two weeks seems impractical.

I often find my elbows bent even when I'm just relaxing, and I’m not sure how I would manage to keep them straight consistently. Most patients experience recovery from Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, whether through conservative measures or surgery. However, if the ulnar nerve is significantly compressed or if there's muscle atrophy, some nerve damage might be irreversible, leading to persistent symptoms like pain, tingling, or numbness even post-surgery, as noted by goldenstateortho.com.

Having experienced tingling in my elbows and fingers for years, I now feel it daily. I’m concerned about the potential for irreversible nerve damage and may consider surgery to move the nerve.

For the time being, I will attempt conservative measures and try to remember to keep my elbows straight whenever possible, though doing so regularly feels unrealistic. My insurance requires documentation that I have explored conservative options before authorizing a nerve test.

Have you dealt with Cubital Tunnel Syndrome or undergone surgery to address it? I would appreciate any comments or insights on this matter.

Thank you for reading and sharing your thoughts.

In this video, Dr. Sophia Strike answers frequently asked questions about Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, providing valuable insights into its diagnosis and treatment options.

Dr. Nabil Ebraheim covers everything you need to know about Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, including symptoms, causes, and various treatment approaches.