Ulnar Nerve Compression

What is ulnar nerve compression?

c The ulnar nerve is one of the main nerves of the forearm and hand, responsible for the sensation and movement of the little finger and part of the ring finger, as well as some of the intrinsic muscles of the hand. Compression of the nerve can lead to a range of painful and debilitating symptoms.

Symptoms:
Symptoms of ulnar nerve compression include numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers, inner elbow pain that may radiate down the forearm, hand weakness, and difficulty with precise hand movements. In more advanced cases, compression can lead to muscle atrophy in the hand and a loss of fine motor skills.

Causes:
Causes of ulnar nerve compression include repetitive elbow movements, direct trauma or injury, prolonged pressure on the elbow (such as resting on hard surfaces), and medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. The condition can also be worsened by individual anatomical factors, such as a naturally narrower cubital tunnel.

Diagnosis:
Diagnosis is made through a physical examination and specific neurological tests. The doctor will assess sensation, muscle strength, and typical signs such as the Tinel’s sign, where tapping on the ulnar nerve elicits tingling sensations. Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) can be used to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the severity of the compression.

Treatments:
Treatment for ulnar nerve compression depends on the severity of symptoms. In mild cases, conservative treatment may include activity modifications to reduce pressure on the elbow, use of elbow braces to keep the joint in a neutral position during sleep, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and swelling. Physical therapy can also help improve mobility and strength in the forearm and hand.

For more severe or persistent cases, surgery may be necessary to decompress the ulnar nerve and prevent further damage. Surgical options include in situ decompression, which releases the nerve without changing its position, and anterior transposition, which relocates the nerve to a more protected area. The choice of procedure depends on the specific cause and severity of the compression.

At Handclinic, under the care of Dr. Marco Guidi, we use a personalized approach and advanced technologies to diagnose and treat ulnar nerve compression. Our goal is to relieve pain, restore function in the elbow and hand, and significantly improve our patients’ quality of life.