Ulnar Neuropathy

What is Ulnar Neuropathy?

The ulnar nerve passes through your wrist. Damaging the ulnar nerve is as easy as just twisting your wrist too hard or turning it too much in either direction. The ulnar nerve is responsible for getting messages to the muscle in the forearm and hand. Ulnar neuropathy is also known as bicyclers’ neuropathy, cubital tunnel syndrome, and tardy ulnar palsy.

Ulnar Nerve

Since ulnar neuropathy takes a while to develop into the stage where the disease is noticeable, the occurrence of it is usually in middle-aged and older adults than in children. The onset of the symptoms of ulnar neuropathy can be damaging to you in that you could lose the use of an arm. Tasks as simple as turning a door knob can become impossible for you.

What to Avoid

To avoid developing ulnar neuropathy related to your elbow, try not to sit propped on your elbow for long periods of time (such as when you are on the computer or sitting at a table reading.

Some other ways to decrease symptoms such as weakness in and around your wrist is to take it easy on your wrists while working and playing. Ending up at the age of 45 with an immobile hand and forearm is a very real scenario for those who are afflicted with ulnar neuropathy. The pain can be severe in cases. The joints of your bones are eventually affected and movement becomes increasingly difficult.

What You Can Do

If you are worried that you may be suffering from ulnar neuropathy, make sure to contact your doctor. He may have ways to treat you that will greatly lessen the pain involved. You may be prescribed a non-steroidal drug to prevent any swelling around the nerves or you may be give a splint to wear to soften the pressure on the ulnar nerve. You can obtain some relief by wearing protective splint over your wrist that is tight enough to prevent you from turning too far and twisting the damaged nerve. You may be able to offset the symptoms with exercise and physical therapy.