Your doctor may recommend wearing a cubital tunnel syndrome brace to help manage and treat the condition. Here’s what you need to know.
What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition where the ulnar never (funny bone) becomes irritated, stretched, or compressed. It can cause numbness and pain in the wrist, hands, and fingers. The ulnar nerve travels from the neck down to the fingers, on the pinky finger side of the forearm.
Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome include:
- Hand pain
- Weak grip
- Aching on the inside of the elbow
- Numbness and tingling in the hand
What is a Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Brace?
After a cubital tunnel syndrome test and diagnosis, the first steps in treating cubital tunnel syndrome are typically non-surgical. In many cases, cubital tunnel syndrome can be treated without surgery, but it usually requires intervention.
For many people, a doctor may recommend wearing a cubital tunnel brace or splint at night. A brace is a rigid material that will wrap around the elbow. The idea is that wearing a brace at night will keep the arm straight and prevent it from bending. Typically, pain is worse when the arm is bent, so keeping it in a straight position means that you shouldn’t get woken up from discomfort at night.
When Do You Need a Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Brace?
Essentially, restricting movement in the elbow can help to reduce pain associated with the condition. It’s important that you follow your doctor’s recommendations of wearing a cubital tunnel syndrome brace.
The initial treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome is usually nonoperative, which includes modifying activties, exercises, and wearing a brace. You should wait for guidance from your doctor on when to wear a cubital tunnel syndrome during your treatment. Often a doctor will recommend you wear the brace at night as this is the time when you’re most likely to keep your arm bent for a long time, especially if you’re a side sleeper.
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Treatment at The Harley Clinic
When treating cubital tunnel syndrome, you will most likely have to adjust your day-to-day activities. One of the most effective ways to treat the condition is by stopping the activity that’s causing or aggravating the problem. Other treatments may include rest and wearing a brace at night.
There are several non-surgical treatment options to help relieve the pain and reduce the chances of long-term nerve damage. If the condition doesn’t respond to these, then you may need cubital tunnel syndrome surgery to alleviate the pressure. In severe cases, surgery will be needed to decompress the nerve. Hand surgery is usually recommended when there is severe or long-term ulnar nerve compression.
If you’re worried about cubital tunnel syndrome, book a consultation today at The Harley Clinic to speak about your condition and treatment options.
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