But before that, here are a few facts about cubital tunnel syndrome you need to know. Scroll down!
How Does Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Occur?
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve gets compressed or injured. The cubital tunnel is a small, 4 mm tunnel-like opening present in your elbow, between the muscles and bones. The ulnar nerve, which is responsible for movement and feeling in your hands, runs from your neck, shoulder, and arm, through the cubital tunnel to your ring finger and little finger. According to Stanford Health Care, cubital tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow) may occur when a person frequently bends the elbow or leans on the elbow (2). whereas, entrapment of the median nerve causes carpal tunnel syndrome. Due to the narrow opening, injury, and repetitive movement of the arm, the ulnar nerve may get injured. This, in turn, causes pain, numbness, and a limited range of motion in your arm and fingers. In this case, your doctor might recommend taking NSAIDsi Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a group of commonly prescribed drugs that help reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. , making your hand immobile by splinting, and regularly exercising your hand to improve flexibility and range of motion. Here are the exercises that work the best.
5 Cubital Tunnel Exercises To Relieve Pain
The exercises that you are going to do or learn about now are called Nerve Gliding Exercises, which offer pain relief in Cubital Tunnel Syndrome. “Nerve gliding exercises can be highly beneficial for individuals seeking to improve the mobility of their hands and fingers by stretching the ulnar nerve,” says Personal Trainer Hannah Shine. You can include specific exercises in your workout routine to help significantly decrease cubital tunnel syndrome symptoms. These exercises not only increase range of motion but also stimulate blood flow, promoting healing. For best results, these exercises must be done on a regular basis. So, without further ado, let’s take a look at how these exercises are done.
1. Elbow Bend
How To Do Sets And Reps 3 sets of 5 reps
2. Elbow Flexion And Wrist Extension
How To Do Sets And Reps 2 sets of 5 reps
3. Head Tilt
How to Do Sets And Reps 3 sets of 5 reps
4. A-OK
How To Do Sets And Reps 2 sets of 5 reps
5. Arm Flexion In Front Of The Body
How To Do Sets And Reps 2 sets of 5 reps By doing these exercises, slowly and gently, the pain will reduce, and the range of motion will increase. In addition to the above-mentioned exercises, hand therapy, wrist splint, and nerve flossing may help improve symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome. Apart from exercises and medications, here are a few things that you can do at home for quick healing.
Tips For Healing Cubital Syndrome At Home
According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeonsi They are doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of injuries and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. , there are some home remedies that help relieve symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome. Avoiding leaning on your elbow, keeping your elbow straight when you are sleeping, and resting your elbow on the armrest while using the computer may help improve the symptoms (3).
Apply an ice pack five times a day. You can also make an ice wrap using ice cubes and a towel. Wear an elbow pad. Avoid resting your elbow on hard surfaces.
Avoid wearing elbow support as it will compress the nerve further and cause irritation. Rest your arm as much as possible. Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks. Avoid driving for too long. Avoid playing a sport that would require rapid hand movement. When using a desk, be sure your posture is correct.
David, a YouTuber, shared his experience with cubital tunnel syndrome and insights on how he has been managing the pain by using elbow and wrist pads. He says,“They called the elbow support where you put it on and then you cannot bend your arms more than 19 degrees, so that helped a lot. I also use these for the wrists, where you cannot bend your wrists. These two are the best solutions I know (i)”. What diagnostic procedures are used for cubital tunnel syndrome? Your doctor may conduct a physical examination, nerve conduction studies, and imaging tests like MRI or ultrasound to examine the state of the ulnar nerve and surrounding structures may be performed. How long does it take for cubital tunnel syndrome to heal? It takes approximately two to six weeks for cubital tunnel syndrome to go away. Do compression sleeves help cubital tunnel? Compression sleeves help manage cubital tunnel syndrome by providing external support and promoting circulation in the affected area. How may massage help cubital tunnel syndrome? Muscle stripping helps to relieve cubital tunnel syndrome as this approach applies pressure to the flexor carpi ulnarisi An elongated muscle that lets one extend and adduct the wrist located in the posterior of the forearm. . However, it should be done with caution. How do you sleep with cubital tunnel syndrome? Avoiding elbow flexion during sleeping and wearing an elbow splint helps to sleep well with cubital tunnel syndrome. Is cubital tunnel syndrome the same as tennis elbow? No. Cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by inflammation of the ulnar nerve, whereas tennis elbow syndrome occurs due to inflammation of the tendons.
Illustration: Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Exercises For Quick Pain Relief
Learn how to do physical therapy exercises to help relieve cubital tunnel syndrome pain. Watch this video to get tips on stretches and strengthening exercises to reduce discomfort.
