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Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge
The Bone & Joint Clinic Staff • September 25, 2024
Long-term Effects of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome on Hand Function

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome (CuTS) is a condition that affects the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow. This nerve is responsible for sensation in the ring and pinky fingers, as well as controlling fine motor movements in parts of the hand. While it might start with mild discomfort, if left untreated, it can lead to long-term consequences that significantly impact the function of the hands.


Meet Bone and Joint’s Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Specialists

 

What are the Short-Term Effects of CuTS?

In the early stages of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, you may notice mild symptoms such as tingling, numbness, or a "pins and needles" sensation, typically starting in the ring and pinky fingers. These symptoms often come and go and are more likely to occur during certain activities that put pressure on the ulnar nerve, such as keeping the elbow bent for long periods, resting the elbow on a hard surface, or during sleep when the arm is in a flexed position. At this stage, the discomfort is usually intermittent and may be relieved by simply changing arm positions or stretching.


What are the Long-Term Effects of CuTS?

As CuTS progresses, the effects can become significantly more debilitating, especially if nerve compression persists without proper treatment. Muscle weakness in the hand can develop, making it increasingly difficult to perform everyday tasks that require fine motor skills. You may struggle with activities that demand grip strength and may notice a loss of coordination in the affected fingers, particularly the ring and pinky fingers. In severe cases, prolonged nerve compression can lead to permanent damage, resulting in chronic numbness, muscle atrophy, and even deformity of the hand.


How can CuTS Affect Specific Functions of the Hand?

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome tends to affect specific hand functions in noticeable ways. One of the most common issues is a decline in grip strength, which can make everyday tasks harder. Whether it’s opening jars, holding tools, or carrying groceries, you may struggle to maintain a firm grasp.


Precision movements are also affected. Fine motor skills like writing, typing, or using a smartphone may become challenging, particularly because the ulnar nerve helps control the ring and pinky fingers. Over time, this loss of function can contribute to difficulty in coordinating these fingers, which may lead to clumsiness or dropping objects frequently.


The ulnar nerve controls small muscles in the hand, and without proper intervention, these muscles can weaken to the point of noticeable physical changes. This can result in the development of a deformity known as "claw hand," or ulnar nerve palsy, where the ring and pinky fingers become permanently bent toward the palm, making it difficult to straighten them. This deformity not only alters the appearance of the hand but also severely limits its functionality.


Preventing Cubital Tunnel Syndrome and Its Long-term Consequences

Preventing Cubital Tunnel Syndrome and its long-term consequences involves simple ergonomic adjustments and lifestyle changes. Here are some practical tips to protect your ulnar nerve:

  • Avoid prolonged elbow pressure: Don’t rest your elbows on hard surfaces for extended periods, especially if you work at a desk.
  • Stretch and strengthen: Regularly perform hand and elbow exercises that improve flexibility and strength.
  • Use ergonomic tools: Make sure your workstation is set up to reduce strain on your arms and hands.


Early intervention and appropriate treatment can mitigate the effects of CuTS, while prevention strategies can help reduce the likelihood of developing the condition in the first place. If you start feeling numbness, tingling, or weakness in your hand, seek medical advice early to prevent more serious damage. The team of physicians at Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge includes orthopedic specialists who can diagnose and treat cubital tunnel syndrome. Schedule your appointment today.

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Bone & Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge Physician Practice Transition – Effective April 1, 2025

By Bone and Joint Clinic Staff • January 30, 2025
BATON ROUGE, LA, January 30, 2025 – Effective April 1, 2025, four distinguished orthopedic surgeons from The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will transition to Baton Rouge Orthopedic Clinic (BROC), continuing their commitment to providing high-quality orthopedic care. The physicians joining BROC are: 1. Joseph "Jeb" Broyles, MD – Specializes in joint replacement surgery, knee arthroscopy, and cartilage regeneration. 2. Arthur "Art" Hess, MD – Specializes in trauma, hip, knee, and shoulder reconstruction, and total joint replacement surgery. 3. Mat hew "Matt" Mazoch, M D – Specializes in shoulder and knee surgery. 4. Alan Schroeder, MD – Specializes in sports medicine and shoulder surgery. Beginning April 1, 2025, these physicians will operate under BROC's umbrella while continuing to see patients at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge's current location, 7301 Hennessy Blvd. Eventually, the doctors plan to transition to BROC's campus on Bluebonnet Blvd. The estimated timeline for that move is Summer/Fall 2025. In addition, Dr. Patrick Hall will be transitioning to his own practice, Hall Podiatry, that will continue to provide quality podiatric care to patients. Dr. Hall will continue to practice at 7301 Hennessy Blvd. until May/June 2025. After that date, patients may see him at a new nearby location. Dr. Zachary Rohr and Christopher Belleau will also transition their practice to a new location effective March 31, 2025. We will update our patients once those details are finalized. Dr. Gerard Murtagh of The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will be retiring effective March 2025. Dr. Murtagh has been a vital part of the clinic since 1988 and has significantly contributed to its success. We thank Dr. Murtagh for his many years of service to the patients of Bone & Joint Clinic. Patients are encouraged to continue scheduling appointments at The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge using the current process for the foreseeable future. To ensure a seamless transition, The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge will provide detailed information to patients in the coming weeks, including the secure transfer of medical records and continuity of care. The health and well-being of patients remain the top priority, and The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge, BROC, and Hall Podiatry are working together to make this transition as smooth as possible while maintaining uninterrupted care. For more information or to schedule an appointment, patients can contact The Bone and Joint Clinic of Baton Rouge at 225-766-0050 or by visiting bjcbr.com . Patients can also reach BROC at 225-924-2424 or by visiting brortho.com .
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