Cubital
tunnel syndrome is a repetitive stress
injury that occurs in the elbow. Caused
by pressure in the ulnar nerve that runs
through the elbow, the syndrome is characterized
by numbness, pain, and tingling. Although
potentially debilitating, the condition
is responsive to early intervention and
treatment.
Like other nerve entrapment conditions
(e.g., carpal tunnel syndrome), cubital
tunnel syndrome is caused by muscle
strain and ensuing nerve deterioration.
The ulnar nerve travels through the
cubital tunnel of the elbow, and most
people know the region by its more
colloquial name, "the funny bone." When
you hit your funny bone, you are hitting
the intersection of the ulnar nerve
at the cubital tunnel. This causes
the familiar tingling sensation in
the ring and pinkie fingers, just as
tingling in the hand is a common symptom
of cubital tunnel syndrome.
In this condition, the ulnar nerve
becomes compressed behind the elbow
through repetitive strain in the wrist
and forearm. The ulnar nerve is responsible
for mediating muscle movement in the
forearm and hand, and consequently,
damage to the nerve undermines functioning
throughout the arm, wrist, and hand.
Pain, tingling, and loss of grip strength
and coordination are common symptoms
of the condition.
Optimally, treatment for cubital tunnel
syndrome should address the musculature
that is involved. Rest is often helpful
for providing temporary relief; however,
it is unlikely to provide long-term
help. Increasingly, medical experts
are recommending exercises that strengthen
muscles and lengthen supporting tendons
and ligaments through the elbow. These
exercises restore balance and support
and provide a safe, effective way to
treat cubital tunnel syndrome. For
more information on this treatment
approach, browse www.repetitive-strain.com today!