From the Research
Definition and Diagnosis of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) is the compression of the ulnar nerve as it courses through the cubital tunnel near the elbow 1.
- The earliest sign of CuTS is most commonly numbness and tingling of the ring and 5th finger 1.
- CuTS can be diagnosed by physical exam using Tinel's sign, flexion-compression tests, palpating the ulnar nerve for thickening presence of local tenderness along the nerve 1.
Mild Form of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- A mild form of cubital tunnel syndrome can be characterized by minor symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or pain in the ring/small fingers and dorsoulnar hand 1, 2.
- Patients with mild symptoms can be adequately treated nonsurgically with minor changes in activity combined with appropriate splinting 2.
- Nonoperative treatment can be successful for mild cases of cubital tunnel syndrome 3.
Treatment Options
- Conservative treatment for CuTS is almost always pursued before surgical treatment and includes elbow splints, braces, and night-gliding exercises 1.
- Surgical treatment may be pursued in severe CuTS refractory to conservative treatment, with options including open and endoscopic in-situ decompression, medial epicondylectomy, and anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve 1, 4, 5.