The ulnar nerve, also known as the ulnar nerve, passes through a narrow groove in the elbow called the ulnar canal. This critical passageway is vulnerable to various forms of compression. When the nerve does not slide properly within this canal, ulnar nerve compression occurs, particularly during flexion-extension of the elbow. This compression can lead to a series of painful symptoms which, if left untreated, can seriously affect quality of life. It is therefore important to see a hand surgeon as soon as possible. This condition is less common than carpal tunnel syndrome. It can therefore sometimes be diagnosed later.
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Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow
Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow is a common pathology that can affect hand function. This nerve, essential for finger mobility and sensitivity in the ring and little fingers, can become compressed or irritated at the elbow, leading to disabling symptoms. This condition, often referred to as cubital tunnel syndrome, requires special attention to preserve hand function.
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Definition
What is the ulnar nerve at the elbow ?
Why is it compressed?
Compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow is generally caused by positional factors. For example, sleeping with the elbow bent, leaning on the elbow repetitive bending of the elbow can aggravate the situation. Anatomical factors, such as elbow deformity or previous injury, can also contribute to this condition.
Certain professions or sporting activities may also increase the risk of nerve compression at the elbow. In some cases, compression may be linked to cysts, bony growths or other abnormalities that narrow the ulnar canal, making the nerve more susceptible to compression.
What are the symptoms of ulnar nerve compression at the elbow?
Symptoms of ulnar nerve compression at the elbow vary depending on the severity of the compression. Common signs include tingling or numbness in the 4th and 5th fingers, loss of strength in the hand, and clumsiness when performing fine movements, such as grasping small objects. These symptoms can worsen over time, especially if compression persists without treatment, leading to loss of muscle bulk between the thumb and index finger and between fingers on the back of the hand.
Ulnar nerve surgery is necessary to prevent permanent damage, especially if symptoms become disabling and impact daily life.
Diagnosing ulnar nerve compression at the elbow
The diagnosis of ulnar nerve compression relies primarily on a clinical examination by your hand surgeon during the initial consultation. Additional examinations, such as an electromyogram (nerve conduction study), X-rays or ultrasound, may be carried out to complete the assessment and evaluate the severity of nerve damage.
This assessment helps determine the best treatment for ulnar nerve compression at the elbow, whether conservative or surgical.
Freeing the ulnar nerve at the elbow: treatment options
Treatment of ulnar nerve compression varies according to the severity of symptoms.
For early cases, conservative measures such as night splinting and postural adjustments are often recommended.
If these treatments fail, or if compression is severe, ulnar nerve surgery may be considered. The aim is to decompress the nerve at the elbow. It can be done by several operations : opening the groove in which it is compressed or sometimes moving the nerve into another location.
Recovery from ulnar nerve surgery will depend on the degree of compression and the duration of symptoms prior to surgery. In severe or long-standing cases, numbness and hand weakness may persist despite surgical treatment. However, prompt and appropriate intervention considerably increases the chances of full recovery.
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