Introduction
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a common condition that affects the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inside of the elbow. When this nerve becomes compressed, patients often experience numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand and fingers—especially the ring finger and little finger. If left untreated, the symptoms can worsen, sometimes leading to diminished grip strength and long-term nerve damage.
At Specialty Orthopaedics in Dawsonville, GA, Dr. Thomas Neustein specializes in cubital tunnel release surgery and other advanced treatment options for the hand and upper extremity. Patients from Dawsonville, Johns Creek, and the surrounding communities trust his expertise when conservative treatment options fail.
What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a type of tunnel syndrome, similar in nature to carpal tunnel syndrome, but it affects the ulnar nerve at the elbow instead of the median nerve at the wrist. The cubital tunnel is a narrow passageway of bone, ligaments, and muscle located near the medial epicondyle, commonly known as the “funny bone.”
When the nerve is compressed in this area, patients may develop various symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the arm, hand, and fingers. Over time, untreated compression can affect sensation and lead to difficulty performing normal activities.
Causes of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
The condition may occur for several reasons, including:
- Repeated bending of the elbow
- Leaning on the elbow for long periods
- Injury or trauma around the elbow
- Anatomic narrowing of the cubital tunnel
Unlike tennis elbow, which affects the tendons, cubital tunnel syndrome directly involves nerve compression.
Common Symptoms
Patients with cubital tunnel syndrome may notice:
- Numbness or tingling in the ring and little finger
- Weakness or diminished grip strength
- Pain that radiates from the elbow down into the hand
- Discomfort when keeping the elbow bent for long periods, such as during sleep or phone use
- Stiffness or decreased range of motion
These symptoms may occur gradually but can progress quickly if not treated.
Diagnosis and Thorough Examination
A thorough examination by a hand surgeon is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. During your visit in Dawsonville, Dr. Neustein will perform a detailed exam, ask about your symptoms, and may order imaging or nerve studies. These tests help determine whether the ulnar nerve is being compressed and whether cubital tunnel release surgery is recommended.
Conservative Treatment Options
In many cases, conservative treatment options are attempted first. These may include:
- Splinting the elbow at night to prevent bending
- Using anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling
- Activity modification to decrease pressure on the nerve
- Physical therapy to improve flexibility and strengthen surrounding structures
If conservative treatment options fail to relieve symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery
Cubital tunnel release is the most common surgical procedure used to treat this condition. The goal of the cubital tunnel release procedure is to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve so it can heal and restore normal function.
The surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia with sedation or sometimes general anesthesia, depending on the patient’s needs.
The Surgical Procedure
During cubital tunnel release surgery in Dawsonville:
- A small surgical incision is made near the medial epicondyle.
- The surgeon carefully releases tight ligaments or tissue compressing the nerve.
- The ulnar nerve is inspected to ensure that surrounding structures are not causing additional compression.
- In some cases, the nerve is transposed, meaning it is moved to a new position to reduce tension when bending the elbow.
This surgical procedure is performed with precision to avoid complications and to promote healing of the nerve.
Risks and Complications
As with any elbow surgery or hand surgery, there are potential risks. These may include infection, stiffness, nerve damage, numbness, or discomfort around the surgical area. Dr. Neustein takes every precaution to minimize these risks and help patients achieve better recovery outcomes.
Postoperative Care and Recovery
After cubital tunnel release surgery, postoperative care is essential. Patients are usually placed in a splint to protect the surgical area. Sutures are removed at the follow up appointment within 1–2 weeks.
The recovery process often includes physical therapy to restore motion and reduce stiffness. Ice packs, elevation of the arm to heart level, and plastic wrap coverings for showering are common steps to reduce swelling and promote healing.
Patients are encouraged to avoid strenuous activities until cleared by the surgeon. With proper care, most patients can gradually return to normal activities within weeks to months.
Everyday Life After Surgery
Most patients notice improvement in sensation, reduction in pain, and stronger grip after the tunnel release procedure. Full recovery may take several months, but many patients experience significant relief soon after surgery. Dr. Neustein provides personalized care to support each patient’s recovery process.
Related Conditions
Cubital tunnel syndrome is often compared to carpal tunnel syndrome, which involves the median nerve at the wrist. Both conditions can cause numbness and weakness, but the location of symptoms helps distinguish between them. A skilled hand surgeon can diagnose and treat both problems when they occur.
Other conditions treated at Specialty Orthopaedics in Dawsonville include tennis elbow, trigger finger, and a wide range of hand and wrist injuries.
Why Choose Dr. Neustein in Dawsonville, GA?
When patients in Dawsonville, Johns Creek, and surrounding areas need expert hand surgery, they trust Dr. Neustein. He is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in cubital tunnel release surgery, carpal tunnel surgery, and other advanced surgical procedures. His commitment to patient care, attention to detail, and thorough follow up appointments make him one of the best doctors for elbow and hand conditions in North Georgia.
Call to Action
If you are experiencing pain, numbness, or diminished grip strength that may be related to cubital tunnel syndrome, don’t wait for the symptoms to worsen. Schedule an appointment with Dr. Thomas Neustein at Specialty Orthopaedics in Dawsonville, GA. Early treatment can help prevent nerve damage and promote healing, giving you a better recovery and return to normal activities.
