Elbow Pinched Nerves
The ulnar nerve may become pinched or trapped when the elbow is extended. The pinky and ring finger may experience tingling or weakness. The ulnar is one of the three nerves which run from the arm to the hand. It provides sensation and control to a part of the hand.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is another name for a pinched nerve at the elbow. Compression of the ulnar at the elbow is the cause. This condition is more prevalent in people who use their elbows repeatedly, like when typing on a keyboard. Cubital tunnel syndrome is also caused by prolonged elbow flexion or playing sports such as golf or tennis.
Symptoms
A pinched elbow nerve can cause tingling and numbness of the arm. The nerve becomes compressed and can’t send the correct messages to the brain. Other symptoms are muscle cramps, pain and weakness of the arm. It is important that you consult a doctor if you have any of these symptoms so they can diagnose and develop a treatment plan. Untreated, a pinched or irritated nerve can cause permanent damage to the nerve.
Causes
Pinched nerves can be caused by a variety of factors. Repetitive motion is the most common cause. It can be caused by typing on the computer keyboard or working in an assembly line. Other causes of elbow pain include trauma or injury to the elbow joint, arthritis and tumors.
Pinched nerves are most commonly caused by repetitive motion. The same motion can cause nerve damage if it is repeated repeatedly. This type of nerve damage is caused by repetitive movements such as typing or working at an assembly line.
The elbow can also be affected by arthritis and tumors, as well as injury or trauma. Injuries or traumas to the elbow may damage the nerve or cause inflammation, which puts pressure on it. Arthritis may also cause inflammation that can damage the nerve. A tumor can compress the nerve, causing pain.
Treatment
A pinched nerve may cause pain in the elbow. This can be an annoying problem, but it can also be crippling. There are a variety of treatment options depending on your symptoms.
If you have mild symptoms, pain relievers over the counter may be sufficient to provide relief. If your symptoms become more severe, your physician may prescribe stronger medications or recommend physical therapy. Surgery may be required in some cases to relieve the pressure on the nerve.
Talk to your doctor for the best possible treatment if you have a pinched elbow nerve. You can get rid of your pain and symptoms with the right treatment.
Home remedies
You know what it’s like to have a pinched elbow nerve. It can be painful and frustrating. There are several home remedies to relieve the pain of a pinched-nerve.
Applying ice for 20 minutes, multiple times per day, to the affected area is a simple solution. This will reduce pain and inflammation.
Anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen can be taken over-the counter to reduce inflammation and pain. Be sure to consult your doctor prior to taking any medication. This is especially true if you suffer from other medical conditions.
A second effective home remedy involves soaking the affected arm, or elbow for 20 minutes in Epsom salts. This will reduce swelling and discomfort.
Medications
You can take a variety of medications to treat pinched elbow nerves. Ibuprofen can reduce inflammation and pain in the area of the nerve. Corticosteroids can also reduce inflammation. There are also some medications for nerve pain that can relieve the pain of a pinched or irritated nerve.
Exercises
Exercises can be helpful if you have pain in your elbow caused by a pinched or irritated nerve. These exercises can provide relief while you consult a physician to rule out other possible causes.
Start by extending your arm straight in front of your face with the palm facing downward. Your other hand can be used to bend your wrist slowly backwards until you feel the stretch in your forearm. Hold this position in place for 30 seconds, then repeat on the opposite side.
Try making a fist and extending the fingers as far as you can with your affected arm. Your fingers and palm should stretch. Repeat this exercise ten times.
Try flexing your elbow and extending it 10 times. This will loosen the muscles and tendons surrounding the nerve.
Physical Therapy
If you have a pinched elbow nerve, your first step should be to seek physical therapy. A physical therapist will help you strengthen and stretch the muscles surrounding the nerve. Other modalities, such as electrical stimulation, may be used to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy aims to improve range of movement and reduce symptoms.
