Ireland Army Community Hospital

Cubital tunnel syndrome is a problem that occurs when you injure or pinch your ulnar nerve around the area of the elbow known as the cubital tunnel. This often feels similar to hitting your funny bone.

Signs and Symptoms of this Condition

Numbness or tingling in the ring and little finger (which may increase when the elbow is bent for long periods of time)
Decreased strength in the hand
Sharp pain when touching the elbow
Inability to straighten fingers
Pain in the ring and little finger

Causes

Engaging in activities where your elbow is frequently bent such as:
- Pulling levers, reaching, or lifting
- Resting elbows on a desk while working
- Sleeping with arms bent
- Holding the phone to the ear for long periods of time
Injury to the elbow or elbow fracture

Prevention / What You Can Do At Home

Use telephone headsets if you are frequently on the phone at work or home
Do not rest your elbows on your desk
Do not curl your arms in when you sleep
Take frequent breaks from activities that cause pain
Complete Ulnar Nerve Gliding Exercises

Prognosis

Prognosis depends on the severity of the compression of the nerve and how well you respond to conservative treatment. Surgery may be necessary in some cases.

Treatment

Conservative treatment includes: resting the area to decrease inflammation, taking medication to reduce swelling, using elbow pads, and using an elbow splint at night to keep your arm straight.

Disclaimer
The information on this website is meant for patient education and to provide home treatment options for some common muscular and skeletal injuries. It is not intended to replace your health care provider. Many are actually intended for use by your health care provider through referral to the website for appropriate self-care interventions. If your symptoms get worse; are not improving in two weeks despite treatment; or new unexplained symptoms develop, you should contact or follow-up with your health care provide