Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed or irritated at the elbow.

Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed or irritated at the elbow. It commonly causes numbness and tingling in the small finger and half of the ring finger, especially while sleeping, driving, holding a phone, or keeping the elbow bent.

More advanced compression can cause weak grip, poor finger coordination, dropping objects, and wasting of the small muscles in the hand. Longstanding nerve damage may not fully recover, so progressive weakness or constant numbness deserves timely evaluation.

Dr. Knudsen evaluates the elbow, hand, neck, and full nerve pathway. Nerve-conduction studies, EMG, ultrasound, and X-rays may be used to confirm the diagnosis, assess severity, or identify another source. Mild cases often improve with activity changes and nighttime positioning. Surgery may include in-situ cubital tunnel release or anterior ulnar nerve transposition when symptoms persist, weakness develops, or the nerve is unstable.

This information is educational and is not a substitute for an individualized medical evaluation. Written and medically reviewed by Michael L. Knudsen, MD | Last reviewed: July 2026