Specializing in Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition of the elbow that involves the stretching of the ulnar nerve (also known as the "funny bone"), which runs on the inner side of the elbow within a small groove. If the ulnar nerve has been injured, it will cause numbness and/or tingling in the small fingers, pain in the forearm, and/or weakness in the hand.
Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can include:
- Pain around the elbow or down the arm
- Loss of sensation in the hand or wrist
- Weakness or tingling
- Restricted range of motion
You may experience these symptoms if your elbow is bent for extended periods of time, such as during sleep.
Treatment
In most cases, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can be treated using non-surgical treatment options. Dr. Virella will prescribe a personalized treatment plan that may include a combination of the following:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Bracing
- Injections
- Hand therapy
- Activity modification
If your symptoms do not respond to nonsurgical treatment, surgical intervention may be recommended. Dr. Virella will perform either a minimally invasive arthroscopic cubital tunnel release or a traditional cubital tunnel release using a small incision.
Anthony Virella, MD
Anthony Virella, MD is a Board-Certified, Fellowship Trained Neurological Spine Surgeon with advanced training in the management spinal disorders. He is also a graduate of the UCLA Neurosurgery Residency Program and completed his Complex Spine Resident Fellowship at the world-renowned Cleveland Clinic Foundation. Additional work included a second Fellowship in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery at the UCLA Comprehensive Spine Center. Dr. Virella is a nationally recognized spine specialist and has authored numerous articles and lectured nationally and internationally in the field of Complex and Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery.
