Ulnar Neuropathy

Introduction: Ulnar Neuropathy

A condition where the ulnar nerve which runs down the length of the arm becomes trapped. The most common site for entrapment is the elbow and then the wrist. Nerve entrapment can result when the nerve becomes inflamed due to repetitive stress on the nerve such as can occur in cyclists or typists. A broken elbow or fracture can also put pressure on the nerve. Neurological symptoms resulting from the trapped nerve include weakness, numbness, muscle wasting, pain and pins and needles sensation in portions of the lower arm controlled by the ulnar nerve (especially the little and ring fingers). Neuropathy refers to injury to the nerve. The ulnar nerve is also known as the funny bone as it passes through the elbow joint.

Symptoms of Ulnar Neuropathy

• 'Pins and needles' and numbness in the pinky finger
• The neighbouring half of the ring finger and the section of palm below
• Weakness and wasting of the hand muscles
• Inability to straighten pinky and ring finger on affected hand
• 'clawed' hand

See full list of 7 symptoms of Ulnar Neuropathy

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Medical Textbooks Online about Ulnar Neuropathy

Book excerpts: Copyright © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. All rights reserved.

Wrongly Diagnosed with Ulnar Neuropathy?

• Misdiagnosis of Ulnar Neuropathy

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Misdiagnosis and Ulnar Neuropathy

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Causes of Ulnar Neuropathy

Read more about causes of Ulnar Neuropathy.

Treatments for Ulnar Neuropathy

• Orthopaedic surgery to free or transpose entrapped nerve

Read more about treatments for Ulnar Neuropathy

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