Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

We have all hit the “funny bone” once — that sharp, tingling jolt down the arm that makes you laugh and wince at the same time. Most of the time it fades away in seconds. But what happens when that sensation doesn’t go away?

That’s where Cubital Tunnel Syndrome comes in — a condition I often see in patients who come worried about persistent tingling, numbness, or weakness in their hands.

A Patient Story: When Tingling Wouldn’t Stop

A young patient once came to me complaining of “pins and needles” in his ring and little finger every evening after work. He thought it was because of typing all day. But the problem was deeper — the ulnar nerve in his elbow was getting compressed every time he bent it.

He wasn’t dealing with a bad keyboard. He was facing Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.

Why It Happens

The ulnar nerve runs through a narrow tunnel at the back of your elbow — the same spot you hit when you bang your “funny bone.” When you:

• Keep your elbows bent for long (talking on the phone, sleeping with arms folded)
• Rest elbows on hard surfaces for hours
• Or after an injury to the elbow

…the nerve gets irritated or compressed.

Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore

• Tingling or numbness in your ring and little finger
• Weak grip strength (dropping objects)
• Difficulty with finger coordination
• Symptoms that worsen at night or after keeping the elbow bent

What You Can Do Early (Before It Gets Worse)

Change Posture Habits

• Avoid leaning on your elbows at work or while studying.
• Use a headset instead of holding your phone with a bent elbow.

Night Support

• Wrap a soft towel loosely around your elbow to prevent deep bending while you sleep.

Stretch & Strengthen

• Simple nerve-gliding and forearm strengthening exercises (guided by a physiotherapist) can ease pressure and improve recovery.

When to See a Specialist

If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, or if weakness is noticeable, consult an orthopaedic surgeon.

Delaying care can cause permanent nerve damage, but the good news is:

• In many cases, conservative management works well.
• For severe compression, simple outpatient surgeries can relieve pressure on the nerve and restore function.