MSK Doctors

Ulnar Nerve

Ulnar nerve compression, often referred to as cubital tunnel syndrome, occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes irritated or trapped as it passes through the elbow.

Ulnar Nerve

At A Glance

About

This can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness, particularly in the ring and little fingers.

Effective

Referrals

Not Needed

Booking

Instant-book option available

Cost

Lincolnshire
£2,600

Nature Of Ulnar Nerve Treatment

Ulnar nerve treatment focuses on relieving compression of the nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel at the elbow. This may involve a simple decompression procedure, or in more advanced cases, repositioning (transposition) of the nerve to a less vulnerable location.

he goal is to reduce irritation, restore proper nerve function, and prevent further damage, especially if symptoms like numbness or weakness are progressing.

Common Causes Of Ulnar Nerve Injuries

Ulnar Nerve Entrapment Is Typically Caused By Repetitive Stress, Prolonged Pressure, Or Anatomical Narrowing Of The Cubital Tunnel. Common Contributors Include:

Frequent elbow bending: Activities like phone use, driving, or sleeping with bent elbows.

Direct pressure: Leaning on hard surfaces for extended periods.

Injury or trauma: Elbow fractures or dislocations can narrow the tunnel and compress the nerve.

Inflammatory conditions: Arthritis or swelling in the joint can increase pressure.

Occupational strain: Jobs involving vibration tools or repetitive arm movement can trigger symptoms.

Diagnosing Suitability For Ulnar Nerve Treatment

Assessment begins with a clinical examination of arm and hand function, including strength, sensation, and reflexes. Common indicators include tingling or numbness in the ring and little fingers, hand weakness, or muscle wasting.

Diagnostic tools like nerve conduction studies and electromyography (EMG) help confirm the location and severity of compression. Imaging such as ultrasound or MRI may also be used. If symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative care, you may be a suitable candidate for surgical decompression.

Suitable for

Ulnar Nerve Compression

Ulnar Nerve Compression

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Treatment overview

This treatment targets ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow. It typically involves a minimally invasive procedure to release pressure on the nerve. The aim is to restore normal nerve function and relieve symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. The procedure can often be done under local or regional anaesthesia and may not require an overnight hospital stay.

Ulnar nerve compression, often referred to as cubital tunnel syndrome, occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes irritated or trapped as it passes through the elbow. This can cause pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness, particularly in the ring and little fingers. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term nerve damage and restore full arm and hand function.

Benefits

Improves nerve function

Reduces tingling and numbness

Minimally invasive option

Short recovery time

Can prevent long-term muscle loss

How to Pay

We offer a range of flexible payment options to make your treatment experience smooth and stress-free.

Paying for Yourself
(Preferred Option)

Most patients choose to self-fund their treatment. We accept:

Bank Transfers
Credit/Debit Cards
Cash (in person only)

Instalment Plans

We’ve partnered with GoCardless to offer interest-free instalment options. You can easily set up a Direct Debit to spread the cost of your treatment over time.

Finance Options

Looking for a financing plan? You can apply through Kandoo, our trusted finance partner.

Instant online decision
No impact on your credit score
Multiple lenders for competitive rates

Private Medical Insurance (Limited Availability)

We work with a small number of approved insurance providers. However, due to restrictions from many insurers, not all treatments are covered. Please check with your insurer and speak to our team before booking to avoid disappointment.

Treatment Booking Process

01
Online booking/call

Use our website to book an initial consultation, or give us a call.

02
Consultation

Our doctors might request you arrange a scan before your initial consultation. Or, they’ll chat with you (face to face or online) and recommend a scan after your initial consultation, if they think you need one.

03
Treatment

Once your scan results have been reviewed, and your doctor has explained your options, you will be booked in for treatment.

04
Rehab

Following your treatment, your doctor will give you rehab recommendations.

05
Follow Up

You will be booked in for a follow-up consultation, so your doctor can check your progress. You might need further rehab after this consultation.

06
Discharge

Once your doctor is happy with your recovery, you will be discharged. After discharge, we are always here for further questions or support, should you need it.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I need treatment for ulnar nerve compression?

If you’re experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness in the ring and little fingers—especially if symptoms worsen with elbow bending—you may need treatment.

Is the procedure painful?

The treatment is typically performed under local or regional anaesthesia. Most patients report minimal discomfort during or after the procedure.

What is the recovery time?

Most patients can return to light activities within a few days and resume normal activities within a few weeks, depending on the severity of the condition and the specific procedure.

Looking for Treatment in London?

We now offer select services at our Harley Street London clinic through the London Cartilage Clinic, led by internationally recognised surgeon Professor Paul Lee.

Specialist in Cartilage Repair & Joint Preservation

Our London clinic offers advanced treatments like cartilage regeneration and joint preservation to help patients avoid or delay joint replacement.

Harley Street Clinic

Located in Central London, our clinic provides convenient access to world-className musculoskeletal care without long NHS wait times.

Transparent Pricing & Direct Booking

If you would like to be seen in Central London, visit our London Clinic page for pricing, available treatments, and to book directly online.

Faster Recovery Outcomes

Our Harley Street clinic uses cutting-edge techniques designed to reduce downtime and support faster, more effective recovery, getting you back to your lifestyle sooner.

Book a free Discovery Call

Don’t wait to find relief. Whether it’s a consultation, scan, or treatment, we’re ready to help. Book a call with the admin team to discuss.

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