Patient case: Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
A 34-year-old woman presents with a 4-month history of numbness and tingling in her left ring and little fingers. She reports that the symptoms worsen when she bends her elbow or holds her phone for extended periods. She also experiences occasional weakness in her grip, making it difficult to perform tasks like opening jars or holding objects.
The patient works as a graphic designer and often rests her elbows on the desk while working. On physical examination, there is tenderness over the medial epicondyle of the elbow, and a positive Tinel's sign is noted when tapping over the ulnar nerve at the cubital tunnel. The range of motion in the elbow is normal, and there are no signs of muscle atrophy in the hand.
Based on her history and clinical findings, she is diagnosed with cubital tunnel syndrome. Conservative management is recommended, including activity modification, avoidance of prolonged elbow flexion, and the use of an elbow pad to reduce pressure on the nerve. If symptoms do not improve, further evaluation for surgical intervention may be considered.
a). Pain in the shoulder
b). Numbness and tingling in the left ring and little fingers
c). Swelling in the elbow
d). Loss of sensation in the forearm
a). Playing sports
b). Lifting heavy objects
c). Resting her elbows on the desk while working
d). Typing for long hours without breaks
a). Positive Tinel's sign over the ulnar nerve at the cubital tunnel
b). Reduced grip strength in the right hand
c). Tenderness over the radial head
d). Swelling over the elbow joint
a). Surgical intervention
b). Activity modification and use of an elbow pad
c). Corticosteroid injections
d). Complete immobilization of the arm
