If you have mild cubital tunnel syndrome, you may benefit from avoiding putting pressure on your elbow and wearing a splint at night to protect the elbow from over-bending.
Painkillers and anti-inflammatories can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
Physiotherapy can help to stretch and soften tight areas that may be stretching or causing reassure on the nerve. Pads or desensitisation methods such as skin massage may help relieve sensitivity on the inside of the elbow over the nerve.
In more severe cases, you may be offered one of a range of surgical procedures including:
- Decompression of the ulnar nerve to release a trapped nerve from tight ligaments and bands.
- Moving the ulnar nerve in front of the bone on the inside of the elbow to prevent it flicking (subluxing) – this is called transposition.
Rehabilitation is an important part of the recovery process. You will need to avoid any heavy lifting for a short period and may need to do exercises to build strength and flexibility in your affected arm. It may take weeks or months for the numbness and tingling to improve. A physiotherapist may also be able to recommend ways of avoiding repetitive strain on your arm in the future.