Dr. Ebraheim\u2019s educational animated video describes the condition of cubital tunnel syndrome and ulnar nerve entrapment , where the ulnar nerve can become pinched in different locations and due to different reasons, such as: thorasic outlet syndrome, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome(guyon canal).
\nCauses of ulnar nerve entrapement around the cubital tunnel: Arcade of Struthers, Medial intermuscular septum, Osborne\u2019s Fascia, Cubitus Valgus: a deformity in which the elbow is turned outward, entrapement can also occur due to a spur on the medial epicondyle.
\nThe symptoms of this condition are worsened by preforming activities that require bending the elbow.
\nKeeping the elbow extended, especially during the night will often relieve the pressure on the ulnar nerve.
\nSymptoms: the patient will describe symptoms of pain and numbness in the elbow as well as tingling in the ring and little figure.
\nMore severe Symptoms include:
\n– Weak or clumsy hand.
\n– Weakness affecting the ring and little fingers.
\n– Muscle wasting.
\n– Claw hand deformity if compression below the elbow.
\nDifferential Diagnosis:
\n– Pain could be due to injury of the cervical spine C8 nerve root.
\n– Thorasic outlet syndrome: entrapment area between the rib cage and collar bone.
\n– Pancost tumor: apical lung tumor.
\nClinical examination should include:
\n– Check for Tinnel\u2019s Sign
\n– Elbow flexion test
\n– Check for Frement\u2019s sign
\nTreatment:
\n– Conservative: NSAIDs, night spling, elbow pad, therapy, injection.
\n– Surgery: release the nerve with or without transposition.
\nThis condition carry bad prognosis if there is intrinsic muscle atrophy.
\nComplication of surgery is injury to the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve.
\nNeurolysis is not helpful.<\/p>\n