Impingement of the ulnar nerve

The elbow nerve or ulnar nerve is a nerve that runs in a tunnel (cubital tunnel) on the inside of the elbow, just behind the bony protuberance. When this tunnel is narrowed, the nerve becomes pinched and symptoms develop.

Symptoms

Impingement of the elbow nerve causes lividity and tingling in the little and ring fingers. Sometimes it is also accompanied by loss of strength. The entrapment can be caused by e.g. prolonged posture, local pressure on the nerve, trauma, osteoarthritis or inflammation of the elbow joint, instability of the nerve, scarring...

Diagnosis

The diagnosis can be made after clinical examination at the consultation. In addition, a nerve examination (EMG) is usually requested to confirm the diagnosis and estimate severity. If necessary and to exclude other causes, imaging (RX, ultrasound) is sometimes necessary.

‍Treatment

An attempt is always made first to solve the problem with anti-inflammatories or painkillers. It is best to avoid as much pressure on the nerve on the inside of the elbow as possible. If necessary, you can wear a brace at night to avoid prolonged flexion of the elbow.

Surgery

If previous adjustments do not bring enough relief, surgery is necessary. During surgery, the nerve is released so that there is no longer entrapment at the level of the tunnel on the inside of the elbow. If the nerve does not stay in place after release, it is moved forward (anterior transposition). This can be done via day surgery. The goal is to get the elbow moving again as soon as possible after the procedure. If the nerve was moved forward will you have to wear a cast for a short period of time. It can take up to a year until the symptoms disappear completely.

Departments

For more information, please visit the orthopaedics department.

Telephone 011 33 42 86