Expert Treatment for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Symptoms in Morgantown, WV
Effective Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery for Nerve Pain
Numbness and tingling in your ring and little fingers, often accompanied by a weak grip, can be more than just a minor annoyance. These are classic signs of cubital tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by compression of the ulnar nerve — often called the "funny bone" nerve — as it passes through a tight space at the elbow. This ongoing pressure can interfere with work, hobbies, and even sleep. When non-surgical treatments fail to provide lasting relief, cubital tunnel release surgery offers an effective way to decompress the nerve and restore function to your hand.
For over four decades, Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates (MOA) has been a trusted leader in specialized orthopedic care for Morgantown and North Central West Virginia. Our fellowship-trained hand and upper extremity surgeons are experts in diagnosing and treating conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome. We focus on building strong patient relationships and providing personalized treatment plans. Performing advanced procedures at the Mon Health Medical Center and the Mon Health Center for Outpatient Surgery, we combine our deep experience with modern techniques to help you find lasting relief.
You don't have to live with the discomfort of a compressed nerve. At MOA, we offer faster access to appointments than many large health systems, so you can see a hand specialist near you without a long wait.
What is cubital tunnel release surgery, and how does it work?
Cubital tunnel release is a surgical procedure designed to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow. The surgery works by opening the "tunnel" through which the nerve passes, giving it more space and eliminating the compression that causes pain, numbness, and weakness. There are a few different techniques your surgeon might use. The simplest is an in situ decompression, where the surgeon makes an incision over the inner part of the elbow and cuts the ligament roof of the cubital tunnel. Another common procedure is an ulnar nerve transposition, where the surgeon not only releases the nerve but also moves it to a new location in front of the elbow bone (medial epicondyle). This new position prevents the nerve from getting stretched or caught when you bend your elbow.
What are the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?
The symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome are caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve. Most people first notice numbness and tingling in their ring and little fingers, which may come and go. These symptoms often get worse when the elbow is bent for a long time, such as when holding a phone or sleeping. You might also experience an aching pain on the inside of your elbow. As the condition progresses, you may develop weakness in your hand, making it difficult to pinch your thumb and little finger together or grip objects firmly. In severe cases, you might notice muscle wasting in your hand, which is a sign of more significant nerve damage.
How do I know if I need cubital tunnel release surgery?
The decision to undergo cubital tunnel release surgery is typically made after conservative treatments have failed to improve your symptoms. If you have tried splinting, activity modification, and anti-inflammatory medications but continue to experience persistent numbness, significant pain, or increasing weakness in your hand, surgery may be the best option. Your orthopedic hand surgeon will recommend surgery if your symptoms are severe or if there are signs of muscle wasting, as this indicates ongoing nerve damage that needs to be addressed to prevent permanent dysfunction. A nerve conduction study is often performed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the nerve compression before proceeding with surgery.
What is the recovery process like after cubital tunnel release?
The recovery process after cubital tunnel release depends on the specific procedure performed. Following surgery, your elbow will be bandaged, and you may be placed in a splint to keep it straight for a couple of weeks, especially if the nerve was moved. You will be encouraged to move your fingers to prevent stiffness. Pain and soreness at the incision site are normal and can be managed with medication. You will need to avoid heavy lifting and forceful use of your arm for several weeks. Many patients experience relief from their primary symptoms fairly quickly, but it can take several months for the nerve to fully heal and for hand strength to return to normal. Your surgeon may recommend hand therapy to help you regain motion and function.
Are there non-surgical options for cubital tunnel syndrome?
Yes, for mild to moderate cases of cubital tunnel syndrome, non-surgical treatments are always the first line of defense. The goal of these treatments is to reduce pressure on the ulnar nerve. Your doctor may recommend avoiding activities that require you to bend your elbow for prolonged periods. Wearing a splint or even wrapping a towel around your elbow at night can help keep it straight while you sleep, which often relieves nighttime symptoms. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce swelling around the nerve. For some patients, specific nerve gliding exercises taught by a therapist can also be beneficial.
More Questions About Cubital Tunnel Surgery
Do I need a referral to see a hand specialist at MOA?
No, you do not need a referral to schedule a consultation with one of our hand orthopedic surgeons. We offer direct access to our specialists to ensure you can receive expert care without unnecessary delays.
How quickly can I schedule an appointment for cubital tunnel release?
At Mountainstate Orthopedic Associates, we are committed to providing prompt care for our patients. We can typically schedule new patient appointments much faster than larger hospital systems, allowing you to get an evaluation for your symptoms sooner.
What should I expect during a cubital tunnel release consultation?
During your consultation, one of our fellowship-trained hand specialists will talk with you about your symptoms, review your medical history, and perform a physical examination of your arm and hand. They may test your grip strength and check for feeling in your fingers. Your surgeon may recommend a nerve conduction study to confirm the diagnosis and will then discuss all your treatment options to help you make an informed decision.
What are the risks of cubital tunnel release surgery?
While cubital tunnel release is a safe and common procedure, it does have potential risks, including infection, bleeding, and sensitivity at the scar. There is also a small risk of incomplete relief of symptoms or damage to the ulnar nerve or other nearby nerves. Our experienced surgeons take meticulous care to minimize these risks and will discuss them with you in detail before your surgery.