What is ulnar nerve entrapment?
Ulnar nerve entrapment, also called cubital tunnel syndrome, is the deterioration of the ulnar nerve, which travels from the neck to the hand and is responsible for the function of different hand muscles and sensation in the ring and little fingers, becoming compressed.
What are the symptoms of ulnar nerve entrapment?
The patient presents pain, tingling, numbness or burning and, sometimes, decreased or exaggerated sensitivity in some fingers and medial border of the forearm. The symptoms worsen when the elbow is held in flexion.
What are the causes of ulnar nerve entrapment?
Ulnar nerve entrapment can be caused by:
- Thoracic outlet syndrome.
- Abnormalities of the elbow.
- Abnormalities of the shin.
- Abnormalities of the brachial plexus.
- Infections.
- Diabetes.
- Tumors.
- Rheumatism.
- alcoholism
- hypothyroidism
Can ulnar nerve entrapment be prevented?
Exercise is essential to prevent this ailment. Therefore, it is important to do sports often, warming up before and stretching afterwards. Another advice to prevent it is to always try to have a correct posture and avoid tensing the neck and shoulders.
What is the treatment for ulnar nerve entrapment?
To treat this condition, you can opt for conservative treatment (changes in activity, use of splints, rest, stretching and vitamin complexes) or surgical intervention (it can be approached from the elbow or from the wrist).
Which specialist should treat you?
The specialist in charge of treating ulnar nerve entrapment is the orthopedic surgeon.