Pinched Nerve in the Elbow Treatment

A pinched nerve in the back of the elbow is known as cubital tunnel syndrome. This condition occurs when a person bends his arm and the ulnar nerve stretches or comes in contact with the medial epicondyle (bony projection on inside edge of elbow). It feels just like the "funny bone" sensation that sometimes occurs when you hit your elbow on something. People who have this type of pinched nerve in the elbow need to rest, use ice and medication and curtail certain arm-bending movements. Surgery may be required to fully alleviate pain and inflammation caused by this condition.

Effects of Rest and Ice

• People who have a pinched nerve in their elbow need to rest their elbow as much as possible. This includes altering certain daily movements to avoid irritating the ulnar nerve. Ice can help reduce inflammation in the nerve and alleviate pain and numbness, which can also be a symptom. Ice is most effective if it is compressed against the back of the elbow at 20-minute intervals. Ice causes vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and minimizes swelling by limiting blood flow to the ulnar nerve.

Medications & Supplements

• Anti-inflammatory medications such as naproxen and ibuprofen can relieve a pinched nerve in the elbow. These medications serve as Cox-2 inhibitors. They reduce inflammation and pain by curtailing the effects of Cox-2 enzymes and prostaglandins (chemicals), the body's inflammation-producing reaction to injuries. A doctor may prescribe cortisone (a steroid) for more severe pain and swelling. Vitamin B6 (100 mg) may also be effective in treating a pinched ulnar nerve in the elbow.

Benefits of Splints or Braces

• Because of the importance of limiting elbow bending, a brace or splint is often recommended for cubital tunnel syndrome. This keeps compression off the ulnar nerve. Braces or even hockey pads can be effective in limiting bending movements to about a 30-degree angle. Braces also can serve as a reminder not to bend the elbow too often. These braces or even more restrictive splints should be worn while sleeping at night, too.

Considerations

• A doctor can decide if surgery is necessary for a person's pinched elbow nerve. Shaving down the medial epicondyle bone can help alleviate pressure on the ulnar nerve. The ulnar nerve is normally moved as well during the procedure. According to Dr. Michael Bermant, hand plastic surgeon, "placing the nerve beneath a muscle layer prevents it from slipping back in the bony groove and provides an increased blood supply to help heal the nerve. The placement under the muscle also protects the nerve from injury."

Time Frame

• There is no set time frame for overcoming a pinched nerve in the elbow without surgery. Those who are more proactive in their treatment can usually recover much more quickly. If surgery is required, a rehabilitation process, including physical therapy or exercise, will be prescribed. After surgery, it may take a person up to five months to regain her full gripping strength. Smaller muscles may not be completely functional for up to 18 months.