Ulnar Nerve Entrapment and Its Symptoms

The Nervous System is responsible for the transmittal of information to and from the brain. The nerves allow humans to process sensations received in the periphery so we can react to the stimuli around us.

Too much pressure on the nerves may cause nerve compression. It can happen in many parts of your body more frequently on the joints. When the ulnar nerve is compressed in your elbow, it is called “Ulnar Nerve Entrapment.” Initially, you will feel soreness, numbness, and weakness in your elbow area.

Causes

The ulnar nerve runs from the base of your neck to the entire length of your arm. It functions as the muscle control in the forearm and hand. The ulnar nerve is also responsible for the feelings and sensations affecting your little finger and ring finger. The most vulnerable part of the ulnar nerve is at the elbow.

The leading causes of ulnar nerve entrapment is putting pressure on the area for a long time. Most usual causes of ulnar nerve entrapment are:

• Leaning on your elbow for a long time
• Sleeping with your elbows bent
• Bursitis or the buildup of fluid in the elbow

Symptoms

The first noticeable sign of a pinched nerve in the elbow is the weakness in your hand. You will have difficulty grasping and gripping objects with your hand.

You may notice tenderness on your hands and feelings of pain in that part. The little and ring fingers may show some signs of weakness and decreased flexibility.

Other symptoms include:

• Tingling in the hand usually at the little and ring fingers
• Sensitivity to cold in the affected area of the hand or arm
• Tenderness at the elbow part

These symptoms may not be bothersome in the beginning. They tend to come and go at the start. You will notice these symptoms when you bend your elbow. Sometimes, you will wake in the middle of the night and feel a tingling sensation in your fingers.

Who are at risk of Ulnar Nerve Entrapment?

Your chances of getting an ulnar nerve entrapment are high if you have the following pre-existing conditions:

• Arthritis
• Previous arm fracture
• Dislocated shoulder
• Repeated injury in the area

Exact reasons that lead to ulnar nerve entrapment remain unknown. Physical activities that involve repeated bending and pressure on the arm are the usual known cause of nerve pinch in the elbow.

When to visit the Chiropractor?

Visit a chiropractor near you if symptoms worsen. If ulnar nerve entrapment remains untreated, it could put you at a high risk of permanent nerve damage. The muscles that the nerve controls may lose its flexibility and function. Over time, these muscles may begin to shrink, also called muscle wasting. This condition is not easy to reverse.

Visit your chiropractor if you have the following warning signs:

• Severe pain in your arm or hand
• Prolonged weakness or tingling on your hand or arm
• You have observed the symptoms for at least 4 to 6 weeks

A chiropractor will accurately diagnose your condition.

Source:

https://www.webmd.com/pain-management/pinched-nerve-in-elbow#2