What are the symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome?

The condition involves irritation or pressure on the ulnar nerve as it passes behind the inner side of the elbow. Symptoms may travel from the elbow along the forearm into the hand. Hand numbness can be more noticeable when the elbow stays bent, such as during sleep, phone use, or driving. Some people feel aching at the inner elbow, while others mainly notice pins and needles in the ring and little fingers. Persistent nerve irritation may make fine tasks harder and can reduce grip strength. These features can occur with other problems, so a clinical examination is needed to identify the cause.

See [Hand Numbness](/symptoms/hand-numbness/) and [Weak Grip](/symptoms/weak-grip/) for related symptom information.

Arrange an assessment if symptoms keep returning, disturb sleep, or interfere with work and hand tasks. Until then, avoid leaning the inner elbow on hard surfaces and take breaks from prolonged elbow bending. Keep the wrist and hand relaxed rather than forcefully gripping. A clinician may discuss activity changes, night positioning, [Splinting](/treatments/trauma-and-fracture-care/splinting/), or [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) depending on the examination. Mark when numbness appears and which fingers are affected; this can make the visit more useful.

Seek prompt medical care after a sudden loss of hand strength, rapidly worsening numbness, or an injury to the elbow. Urgent assessment is also appropriate if the hand becomes unusually cold, pale, or blue, or if severe pain prevents normal movement. Ongoing weakness, dropping objects, or visible thinning of hand muscles needs timely review because prolonged nerve compression can affect function. Treatment may range from observation and activity changes to [Cubital Tunnel Release](/treatments/reconstructive-orthopedic-surgery/cubital-tunnel-release/) when symptoms and examination findings call for it.

Ask: Which part of the ulnar nerve seems affected? Could my sleep position or work posture be aggravating it? Do I need nerve testing? What changes should I make now, and how will we monitor grip strength? Could another condition, such as [Repetitive Strain Injury](/conditions/repetitive-strain-injury/), explain the symptoms?