Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Non-Surgical Treatment in Palm Beach

Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common nerve compression syndrome in the upper extremity, after carpal tunnel syndrome. It involves compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, inside the bony groove on the inner side of the elbow. The result is numbness, tingling, and weakness in the ring and small fingers and the inner forearm.

At Palm Beach Regenerative, ultrasound-guided ulnar nerve hydrodissection offers a targeted, non-surgical approach for appropriately selected patients with cubital tunnel syndrome. Contact us for more information.

What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

The ulnar nerve passes through the cubital tunnel, a narrow channel formed by bone, ligament, and muscle on the inner elbow. Compression or irritation here, particularly with elbow flexion, produces the characteristic ulnar nerve symptoms. The nerve is also vulnerable to traction injury with repetitive elbow flexion activities.

Signs and Symptoms

• Numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers
• Symptoms worsening with elbow bending or prolonged leaning on the elbow
• Weakness of grip and pinch
• Difficulty with fine motor tasks involving the small finger side of the hand
• Aching on the inner elbow
• In severe cases, wasting of the hand muscles and persistent weakness

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Repetitive elbow flexion activities, particularly in throwing athletes or musicians
• Prolonged elbow flexion during sleep
• Direct pressure on the inner elbow from leaning
• Prior elbow fracture or surgery
• Elbow arthritis

How It Is Diagnosed

Clinical examination including Tinel's sign at the cubital tunnel, elbow flexion test, and sensory testing localizes the nerve compression. Electrodiagnostic studies (nerve conduction velocity across the elbow) provide objective measurement of nerve function and compression severity.

Ultrasound allows direct visualization of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, showing nerve swelling and evaluating for nerve subluxation (snapping) during elbow movement.

Conventional Treatment Options

• Elbow padding and extension splinting at night
• Activity modification to avoid sustained elbow flexion
• Steroid injection around the ulnar nerve for inflammatory relief
• Surgical ulnar nerve decompression or transposition for moderate to severe cases

The Palm Beach Regenerative Approach

Dr. Ghattas uses ultrasound-guided ulnar nerve hydrodissection at the cubital tunnel, separating the nerve from perineural adhesions and reducing the inflammatory compression environment with targeted platelet preparation.

This technique is performed under direct real-time ultrasound visualization to ensure the nerve is safely and accurately treated. Mild to moderate cubital tunnel syndrome is the ideal candidate for this approach.

The BioMod Advantage: MLS Robotic Laser Therapy reduces ulnar nerve inflammation at the cubital tunnel and the associated medial elbow soft tissue irritation. Xymogen B-vitamin complex and nerve support protocols provide the nutritional foundation for ulnar nerve recovery, making every element of your treatment plan complement one another.

Like all medical procedures, orthobiologic treatments have potential risks and benefits. Results vary by individual. Not all patients are candidates. Dr. Ghattas will discuss your specific situation, realistic expectations, and all treatment options, including when surgery or other interventions may be more appropriate.