Many people experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in their arm or hand and wonder, “Is this cubital tunnel syndrome or something else?” or “Why does my pinky and ring finger feel numb?” Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, leading to pain, tingling, and weakness in the hand and forearm.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, located in Midtown Manhattan near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we help patients identify nerve compression issues and provide non-invasive treatment options to relieve symptoms and restore function.
What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve—which runs from the neck down the arm—becomes compressed or irritated at the elbow.
• The ulnar nerve controls sensation in the pinky and half of the ring finger and helps with grip strength.
• Compression in the cubital tunnel (a narrow passage at the elbow) can cause pain, numbness, and weakness in the hand and forearm.
This condition is sometimes called the “funny bone” nerve compression because the ulnar nerve is located near the bony part of the elbow that causes a tingling sensation when bumped.
Signs and Symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
1. Numbness and Tingling in the Pinky and Ring Finger
• Tingling (paresthesia) often occurs when the elbow is bent for long periods.
• Symptoms may worsen at night or after activities like holding a phone, driving, or sleeping with the elbow bent.
2. Weakness in the Hand and Grip
• You may drop objects more frequently due to decreased grip strength.
• Difficulty with pinching movements (holding small objects, buttoning a shirt).
3. Pain or Aching on the Inner Elbow
• The inside of the elbow may feel sore or irritated, especially after repetitive use.
• Pain may radiate down the forearm into the hand.
4. Hand Muscle Wasting (Severe Cases)
• If untreated, muscle loss (atrophy) in the hand can occur, making the pinky and ring finger appear more hollow.
• Claw-like hand deformity may develop in advanced cases.
If you experience persistent numbness, weakness, or muscle wasting, it’s essential to seek medical evaluation to prevent permanent nerve damage.
Common Causes of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
1. Prolonged Elbow Bending
• Keeping the elbow bent for long periods compresses the ulnar nerve.
• Sleeping with arms bent, holding a phone, or prolonged computer use can increase symptoms.
2. Leaning on the Elbow Frequently
• Resting your elbow on a desk, armrest, or hard surface can put pressure on the ulnar nerve.
3. Repetitive Arm Movements
• Jobs or activities that require constant elbow bending and straightening (typing, lifting, playing an instrument) can irritate the nerve over time.
4. Previous Elbow Injury or Arthritis
• Fractures, dislocations, or arthritis in the elbow can narrow the cubital tunnel, increasing nerve compression.
5. Swelling or Fluid Build-Up
• Inflammation from overuse, sports injuries, or certain medical conditions can increase pressure on the nerve.
How to Tell If You Have Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
If you’re unsure whether your symptoms are from cubital tunnel syndrome or another condition, try these simple tests:
1. Elbow Flexion Test
• Bend your elbow fully and hold it for 30–60 seconds.
• If you experience tingling or numbness in your pinky and ring finger, it may indicate ulnar nerve compression.
2. Tinel’s Sign (Tapping Test)
• Lightly tap the inside of your elbow near the ulnar nerve.
• If you feel a tingling or shock-like sensation down the forearm into the fingers, this suggests nerve irritation.
3. Froment’s Sign (Thumb Weakness Test)
• Hold a piece of paper between your thumb and index finger.
• If your thumb bends instead of staying straight, it indicates ulnar nerve weakness.
If these tests reproduce your symptoms, you may have cubital tunnel syndrome. However, if you also experience neck or shoulder pain, your symptoms could be due to a pinched nerve in the neck (cervical radiculopathy).
When to See a Chiropractor or Doctor
Seek Chiropractic Care If:
• Symptoms are mild to moderate and come and go.
• You experience occasional tingling, numbness, or mild pain.
• You want natural, non-invasive treatment to relieve symptoms.
See a Doctor If:
• Symptoms are constant and worsening.
• You have hand weakness or muscle atrophy.
• The condition affects daily activities (grip strength, fine motor skills).
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we specialize in nerve mobilization techniques, posture correction, and ergonomic recommendations to help relieve cubital tunnel syndrome naturally.
How to Relieve Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
1. Avoid Prolonged Elbow Bending
• Keep your elbow straight while sleeping (use a brace or towel wrap to prevent bending).
• Take frequent breaks from activities that require prolonged bending.
2. Improve Posture and Ergonomics
• Avoid resting your elbows on hard surfaces (use padding if needed).
• Adjust your workstation to reduce elbow strain while typing or using a mouse.
3. Stretch and Mobilize the Nerve
• Ulnar Nerve Glide:
• Extend your arm out to the side with your palm facing up.
• Slowly bend your wrist and fingers back while keeping your elbow straight.
• Repeat 5–10 times per day.
• Gentle Wrist and Finger Stretches help keep the hand and forearm flexible.
4. Strengthen the Hand and Forearm Muscles
• Grip exercises (using a stress ball or therapy putty).
• Finger and wrist resistance exercises to prevent weakness.
5. Try Chiropractic Care for Nerve Release
• Spinal and elbow adjustments can reduce nerve irritation.
• Soft tissue therapy helps relieve tension in the forearm and hand muscles.
• Postural corrections improve nerve function and circulation.
Final Thoughts: Do You Have Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
If you experience numbness, tingling, or weakness in your pinky and ring finger, cubital tunnel syndrome may be the cause—especially if symptoms worsen when the elbow is bent.
Mild cases can often be managed with posture corrections, nerve glides, and ergonomic changes. However, chronic or severe cases may require professional treatment to prevent long-term nerve damage.
If you’re experiencing persistent arm pain, tingling, or hand weakness, schedule an appointment at Unity Chiropractic Wellness today! Conveniently located in Midtown East near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we’re here to help you relieve nerve compression and restore function naturally.