Ulnar Nerve Entrapment

Understanding Ulnar Nerve Entrapment Ulnar nerve entrapment, often referred to as cubital tunnel syndrome, happens when the ulnar nerve, which runs from your neck down to your hand, gets compressed or irritated at your elbow. This isn’t just about your “funny bone” getting hit, though that’s the spot where the nerve is quite close to the surface and can be easily bumped. When this nerve is squeezed or stretched at the elbow, it can cause a range of symptoms, most commonly:

• Numbness and tingling in your pinky and the side of your ring finger.
• Pain in your forearm and hand.
• Weakness in your hand, making it harder to grip things or coordinate your fingers.

Over time, if the nerve remains compressed, it can lead to more significant issues. It is often caused by repetitive elbow bending, leaning on the elbow, or direct trauma.