Ulnar Nerve - Ulnar Nerve Entrapment

Ulnar Nerve Entrapment

The ulnar nerve can be trapped or pinched as it proceeds from the brachial plexus to the fingertips. One common cause is cubital tunnel syndrome. In this syndrome, a tunnel on the medial side of the elbow traps the nerve.

Pinching of the ulnar nerve often causes paraesthesiae (tingling) in the fourth and fifth digits. Temporary paraesthesiae can be caused by sleeping or poor posture while awkwardly placing weight on one's arm, or by cycling for extended periods of time. In severe cases, surgery is performed to move the nerve.

Severe entrapment or complete severing of the ulnar nerve can present clinically as an ulnar claw, or can be diagnosed by clinical tests, like card test, Froment's sign, and so on.