What is a Trapped Ulnar Nerve?

A trapped ulnar nerve, also known as ulnar nerve entrapment, occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated, leading to pain, weakness, and numbness in the hand and arm. The ulnar nerve travels from the neck down to the hand, passing through various anatomical structures along the way. When it gets trapped or compressed at any point, it can result in symptoms that affect hand and arm function.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of a trapped ulnar nerve may include:

• Numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers.
• Weakness in the hand, particularly when gripping objects or performing fine motor tasks.
• Pain or discomfort in the elbow, forearm, or hand.
• Difficulty with coordination and fine movements, such as buttoning clothes or writing.
• Muscle wasting in the hand.

What are the causes?

Common causes of ulnar nerve entrapment include:

• Compression of the nerve as it passes through narrow anatomical structures, such as the cubital tunnel (at the elbow) or Guyon’s canal (at the wrist).
• Prolonged pressure on the nerve, such as leaning on the elbow for extended periods.
• Repetitive motions or activities that put a strain on the ulnar nerve, such as typing or playing musical instruments.
• Trauma or injury to the elbow or wrist.
• Underlying medical conditions, such as arthritis or diabetes, which can affect nerve function.

What are the treatment options?

Non-surgical

Non-surgical treatment options for a trapped ulnar nerve may include:

• Rest and activity modification to avoid exacerbating symptoms.
• Splinting or bracing to keep the elbow or wrist in a neutral position and reduce pressure on the nerve.
• Physical therapy to improve muscle strength and flexibility and alleviate symptoms.
• Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.

Surgical

If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical treatment options for a trapped ulnar nerve may include:

• Ulnar nerve decompression: Surgical release of structures compressing the ulnar nerve, such as the cubital tunnel or Guyon’s canal.
• Ulnar nerve transposition: Surgical relocation of the ulnar nerve to a different position to alleviate pressure and prevent further compression.

What are the potential risk factors and complications?

Potential risks and complications of ulnar nerve transposition surgery may include:

• Infection at the surgical site.
• Nerve injury or damage.
• Scar tissue formation.
• Continued or recurrent symptoms.
• Loss of sensation or weakness in the hand or arm.
• Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the affected joint.