The cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve in the arm, also called the cubital nerve, is irritated or compressed at the level of the elbow, more precisely behind the elbow.

The ulnar nerve is one of the three nerves that innervate the upper limb stretching from the neck to the hand. It can be compressed anywhere during it and depending on the place of compression, it can cause numbness in the hand, elbow, fingers or wrist. Most commonly, however, numbness is installed at the level of the little and ring fingers. In the stage after the compression of the ulnar nerve, a weak adherence/grip of the affected fingers appears.

The ulnar nerve starts at the level of the lateral region of the neck, where the individual nerve roots of the spinal nerves leave the spine through small openings between the vertebrae, also called intervertebral holes. Nerve roots join together to form three main nerve trunks. At the level of the axillary region, the three trunks branch into the terminal nerves. One of these nerves is the ulnar nerve, which passes through the ulnar canal (tunnel) at the elbow level. The canal (tunnel) consists of muscles, ligaments and bones. The ulnar nerve passes through the ulnar canal and makes its way down the forearm and in the hand. It ensures the sensory innervation of the medial part of the forearm, the innervation of the little finger and the lateral half of the ring finger. The ulnar nerve also provides motor innervation at the level of the forearm and hands.

➢ long-lasting support on the elbows

➢ certain sports such as baseball or cricket also predispose to compression of the ulnar nerve

➢ keeping the elbows bent for a long time, by using the phone for example or other devices.

Ice applied topically, around the elbow, in sessions of 5-10 minutes many times a day for 2-4 weeks, helps reduce pain and swelling. Always put a thin towel between the ice and the area on which it is applied.

Anti-inflammatory drugs or cortisone injections, are indicated to reduce pain and inflammation around the elbow.

During the night, the elbow is kept in the right position with the help of a splint or other type of elbow support.

Depending on the area where the ulnar nerve is compressed, specific exercises will be performed that help the nerve to slide through the cubital tunnel, thus relieving the symptoms.

Also, the physical therapy program will include exercises to prevent the stiffness of the upper limb.

It consists in releasing the ulnar nerve from the cubital tunnel at the elbow level and its transposition (moving) anteriorly from the medial epicondyle of the elbow, so that the risk of further compression of the cubital nerve on the bone plane is eliminated.

➢ Avoid prolonged activities that require bending the elbows

➢ Avoid leaning on the elbows

➢ Keep your elbows straight for as long as possible