This is a condition caused by compression of the ulnar nerve, usually at the elbow. This is the second most common nerve entrapment after carpal tunnel syndrome.

The elbow is the most vulnerable point of the ulnar nerve: here it is superficial, fixed and crosses a joint. The cause of most cases is unknown. However, there may be a history of elbow fracture, dislocation, arthritis, or repeated minor trauma.

This entrapment causes discomfort (pain, numbness and/or tingling) in the little finger and half of the ring finger, elbow pain, and hand weakness. Early symptoms may be purely weakness. Often the symptoms are made worse by cold temperature. The ulnar nerve is also occasionally tender at the elbow ("the funny bone").

• Diagnosis
• Treatment Options
• What to Expect
• More Information and Internet Links

- back to top -

PERIPHERAL NERVE INFORMATION

CONDITIONS & TREATMENTS ANATOMY RADIOLOGY SURGERY

NERVE LINKS

SPINE HEALTH SPINE UNIVERSE AANS/CNS

CONDITIONS & TREATMENTS

BRAIN SPINE (Cervical) PERIPHERAL NERVE

RESOURCES

NEUROSURGERY ONCALL SUPPORT GROUPS GUILFORD PHARMACEUTICALS MEDICAL INFORMATION LINKS DFW-NeuroNetwork