Cubital tunnel syndrome
What is it?
The syndrome of cubitale tunnel is a condition where the ulnar nerve is compressed against elbow. The increase in volume of the tunnel structures cause nerve crushing ( edema for fractures , traumas, arthritis, cysts , tendons inflammation, deformities) . However, in many cases the cause is not clear. Sometimes it is precisely the nerve to be involved (diabetic neuropathy, cervical compression from cervical hernia)
Among the most common causes:
Unknown origin
Diabetes, thyroid diseases
Bone fractures of the arm and the elbow Tendinitis
Repeated manual work
Motorcycling
Rheumatoid arthritis
What are the symptoms
Sensitivity alterations (hand numb, heavy, hot, cold,tingling)
Night pain, tingling, burning sensation in the 4-5 fingers
Falling objects from hands
Difficulty opening bottle, turning key Strength decrease
Wrist swelling
Difficulty moving hand, especially in the morning
Neck pain
Pain radiating from hand up to the arm
They can be completely silent
How is it treated?
Initially, conservative treatment is recommended, including physiokinesiotherapy, medications and corticoids infiltrations (neuroanalgesia), braces.
In cases where the pain is severe, several surgical interventions can be carried out, depending on disease severity. When the nerve is decompressed, the tunnel increases in size by approximately 30%. Subsequently, physiotherapy is recommended to promote healing.