Do you notice pain, numbness and tingling in your forearm? Do you experience weakness in your wrist and hand? You may be experiencing compression of one of the nerves passing through the elbow. Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) is a condition that affects the ulnar nerve as it passes through a narrow space on the inner side of the elbow. This can result in pain, numbness, and weakness in the forearm, hand, and fingers. Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for CuTS, helping to alleviate symptoms and restore function.
Here are some key points to keep in mind when developing a physical therapy plan for CuTS:
- Education: Education is an essential component of CuTS treatment. Patients should be taught how to avoid activities that aggravate their symptoms and how to modify their daily routines to reduce pressure on the ulnar nerve. This may include avoiding leaning on the elbow, using a padded armrest, or adjusting the height of their keyboard and mouse.
- Stretching and Range of Motion Exercises: Stretching and range of motion exercises can help to reduce muscle tension and increase flexibility in the forearm, wrist, and hand. This can help to alleviate symptoms and improve overall function. Examples of exercises include wrist flexor and extensor stretches, elbow flexion and extension stretches, and finger and thumb stretches.
- Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises can help to improve the overall strength and function of the forearm, wrist, and hand. This can help to reduce symptoms and prevent further injury. Examples of exercises include wrist curls, forearm pronation and supination, and grip strengthening exercises.
- Nerve Gliding Exercises: Nerve gliding exercises can help to reduce tension and improve the mobility of the ulnar nerve. These exercises involve moving the arm and wrist through a range of motions while maintaining a slight tension on the nerve. Examples of exercises include ulnar nerve glides, wrist extension nerve glides, and finger and thumb nerve glides.
- Modalities: Physical therapists may also use modalities such as ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and heat or ice therapy to help reduce pain and inflammation associated with CuTS.
Overall, physical therapy can be an effective treatment for CuTS. By incorporating a combination of education, stretching and range of motion exercises, strengthening exercises, nerve gliding exercises, and modalities, physical therapists can help patients to alleviate symptoms and improve their overall function. If you are experiencing symptoms of CuTS, Call Respire Physical Therapy at 703-671-1871 or click here to schedule an evaluation with a Physical Therapist to reduce your arm and hand pain and return to your favorite activities!
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