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Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery for Ulnar Nerve Relief and Pain Reduction

To help you discuss cubital tunnel release surgery as a treatment option with your orthopedic surgeon, here’s a breakdown of this surgical procedure.

What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

Cubital tunnel syndrome, or ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow, happens when the ulnar nerve in the elbow joint becomes irritated or compressed.

There are non-surgical methods for relieving cubital tunnel syndrome, including pain medications, lifestyle modifications, and the use of a brace or a change in activities. If nonsurgical methods fail to improve symptoms, or pain and muscle weakness get worse, an orthopedic surgeon may recommend cubital tunnel release surgery.

What Are the Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

The symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include moderate to severe pain or numbness in the elbow, little finger, or ring finger. If left untreated, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can result in severe pain and make the hand unusable.

To prevent further damage, patients should seek treatment for Cubital Tunnel Syndrome if they are experiencing elbow pain for an extended period of time, or elbow pain that is interfering with their mental and physical health.

How Is Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery Performed?

Cubital tunnel release surgery involves cutting and dividing the ligament roof of the cubital tunnel to relieve pain. This procedure increases the tunnel size, decreasing the pressure on the ulnar nerve, allowing more room for the nerve to breathe.

What Happens After Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery?

After surgery, the orthopedic surgeon will give the patient the following guidelines in order to promote healing and ensure successful outcomes:

  • Stay in a soft dressing and refrain from heavy lifting for two weeks.
  • Gently move your hand, wrist, and elbow to avoid stiffness; grip strength should return within a few months, though full recovery may take a year
  • After two weeks, have the sutures removed, and lift as much as possible; Our goal is for the patient to not have to have physical therapy
  • Keep track of progress; most patients can expect the incision fully healed within a few weeks to few months

If you or your physician suspect you may have Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, don’t suffer in silence — or let your symptoms get worse. See how Cubital Tunnel Release Surgery could help you.