Home Injuries Hand Numbness

Hand Numbness

Hand Numbness

Description Of The Injury: Ulnar neuropathy is a condition in which the ulnar nerve, which runs down the length of the arm, becomes trapped or pinched. It can be caused by blunt trauma, a broken or fractured elbow, deformities resulting from rheumatoid arthritis, hemophilia, malnutrition, and cigarette smoking.

Injury Symptoms: Physical symptoms of ulnar neuropathy include arm numbness, arm weakness, "pins and needles" sensations, pain around the elbow and down the forearm, and a loss of function in fingers. Some sufferers report their hands involuntarily contorting into a clawed shape.

Additional Information

Home Treatments:

Using splints or cushions around the area can ease stress on the nerve and relieve discomfort. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can control swelling around the nerve.

Professional Medical Treatments:

Those suffering from ulnar neuropathy may need to undergo orthopaedic surgery to free the trapped nerve. An ulnar transposition moves the nerve to the other side of the elbow, usually fixing the problem immediately.

Physical Therapy and Exercises:

Physical therapists can aid those suffering from ulnar neuropathy by providing exercises that increase muscular strength and teach proper positioning to reduce inflammation. Wearing braces continuously could prevent a second onset of the condition.

Exercise Techniques to Prevent Injury:

Putting weight on the elbows for an extended period of time can cause ulnar neuropathy, so be sure to stretch out your forearms while doing activities like sitting in front of a computer for an extended period of time.