Numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand can be frustrating and disruptive to daily activities. One common cause of these symptoms is cubital tunnel syndrome, a nerve compression condition that affects the elbow and forearm. Left untreated, it can lead to chronic discomfort and functional loss.
What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve as it passes through a narrow space called the cubital tunnel on the inside of the elbow. The ulnar nerve controls sensation in the ring and little fingers, and helps control the muscles of the hand and forearm. Compression can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the arm and hand.
Causes of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Repeated elbow bending (sports, work tasks, phone use).
- Prolonged pressure on the inside of the elbow.
- Previous elbow injury or fracture.
- Arthritis or bone spurs in the elbow joint.
- Thickened connective tissue narrows the cubital tunnel.
Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
- Numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers.
- Weak grip strength.
- Hand clumsiness or difficulty with fine motor tasks.
- Pain on the inside of the elbow or forearm.
- Symptoms that worsen when the elbow is bent for long periods.
How Gonstead Chiropractic Can Help
While some cases may require medical intervention, Gonstead chiropractic care can help reduce nerve irritation, restore joint mobility, and support optimal arm function.
1. Identify and Correct Misalignments
Misalignments in the cervical spine, shoulder, or elbow can contribute to nerve irritation. Gonstead chiropractors locate and correct these with precise adjustments.
2. Improve Nerve Function
Correcting spinal and extremity alignment helps reduce tension on the ulnar nerve and improve communication between the brain and arm muscles.
3. Reduce Inflammation
Restoring proper biomechanics can decrease swelling and irritation around the cubital tunnel.
4. Enhance Healing
Better alignment improves circulation, promoting tissue repair and reducing symptoms.
5. Prevent Recurrence
Posture coaching, ergonomic advice, and movement modifications can help protect the ulnar nerve during work, sports, and daily activities.
The Bottom Line
Cubital tunnel syndrome can cause ongoing discomfort and weakness if left untreated. Gonstead chiropractic care offers a precise, non-invasive approach to reduce nerve compression, restore mobility, and prevent future flare-ups. If you’re experiencing hand numbness, tingling, or weakness, an evaluation can determine whether cubital tunnel syndrome is the cause and guide you toward effective treatment.
References
- Mayo Clinic – “Cubital Tunnel Syndrome”https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/cubital-tunnel-syndrome
- Cleveland Clinic – “Cubital Tunnel Syndrome”https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21997-cubital-tunnel-syndrome
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – “Cubital Tunnel Syndrome”https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases–conditions/cubital-tunnel-syndrome
- StatPearls via NCBI – “Cubital Tunnel Syndrome”https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538259/
- Gonstead Chiropractic Center – “Nerve Compression and Chiropractic Care”https://gonsteadchiropracticcenter.com