Nerve Compression in the Elbow
Pressure on nerves passing through the elbow, causing pain, numbness, or weakness in the arm and hand.
Symptoms
- Numbness or tingling in the hand or fingers
- Weakness in grip strength
- Pain in the elbow or forearm
- Difficulty using the affected arm
- Symptoms worsening with prolonged elbow flexion
Causes & Risk Factors
- Repetitive elbow bending
- Prolonged pressure on the elbow
- Trauma or injury
- Bone spurs or arthritis
- Occupational or sports activities
Diagnosis
- Nerve conduction studies (EMG)
- Tinel’s test or elbow flexion test
- MRI or ultrasound for nerve visualization
- Clinical symptom review
Effective Treatment Options
- Activity modification to reduce nerve stress
- Nerve gliding exercises
- Splinting to prevent elbow flexion at night
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Surgical decompression for severe cases
Frequently Asked Questions
Is nerve compression in the elbow permanent?
Early treatment usually leads to full recovery, but delayed care may result in long-term deficits.
How can I sleep to avoid worsening nerve compression?
Keep your elbow straight or slightly bent and avoid resting it under your head or body.
