Tingling in the little finger - Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

If your little finger and part of your ring finger keep going numb or tingly, especially after bending your elbow for a while or leaning on it, you may be dealing with cubital tunnel syndrome.

What is it?

Cubital tunnel syndrome happens when the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow through a narrow passage sometimes called the funny bone, becomes squeezed or irritated. This nerve carries sensation to the little finger and half of the ring finger, and it also controls some of the small muscles in the hand. When it is compressed, the result is tingling, numbness, or a feeling of pins and needles in those fingers, and sometimes an ache around the elbow itself.

Why does it happen?

The ulnar nerve sits close to the skin at the elbow, so it is vulnerable to pressure and stretching. Keeping the elbow bent for long periods, such as holding a phone to your ear, sleeping with the arm curled up, or resting on the elbow at a desk, can all add strain. Previous injuries or fractures around the elbow, swelling from arthritis, and simply the shape of a person's elbow can also make someone more prone to it. It is a fairly common problem, thought to affect a small but noticeable proportion of adults at some point.

When should I see a hand surgeon?

It is worth seeking an assessment if the tingling becomes constant rather than coming and going, if you notice weakness or clumsiness when using your hand, or if you see the muscles between your fingers looking thinner or wasted. These signs suggest the nerve is under more significant pressure and that waiting could allow the problem to worsen, so earlier review generally leads to better outcomes.

How is it treated?

Mild cases often improve with simple changes, such as avoiding prolonged elbow bending, adjusting how you sleep, and sometimes wearing a splint at night to keep the elbow straighter. Physiotherapy can also help. When symptoms are more persistent, more severe, or associated with muscle weakness, surgery to relieve pressure on the nerve may be recommended. The right approach depends on how long symptoms have been present and how much the nerve is affected, which is best judged through an individual assessment.

If this sounds familiar, book a consultation at londonhandandwristsurgeon.com to have your symptoms properly assessed.