The ulnar nerve is a long nerve in the arm that runs from the armpit into the fourth and fifth fingers. Ulnar nerve damage results in a neuropathy, which causes pain, numbness, tingling and burning along the inside of the arm and in the fourth and fifth fingers. Most cases are treated conservatively, but surgery may be needed in more severe cases of ulnar nerve damage.
Elbow Fracture
According to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS), a prior elbow fracture may be a cause of ulnar nerve damage. Specifically, bone fragments from a fractured elbow may come into contact with the ulnar nerve and cause damage. Bone fragments can pierce the nerve itself or compress structures around the nerve, which may cause damage. Thus, a patient with a history of a fractured elbow who is now experiencing pain along the ulnar nerve should schedule an appointment with his doctor to have his ulnar nerve assessed for possible damage.
Bone Spurs
Bone spurs may be a cause of ulnar nerve damage, states the AAOS. Bone spurs are humps of bone that form in response to bone on bone rubbing that occurs with osteoarthritis. A bone spur can become large enough to pierce or compress the ulnar nerve, which can result in significant damage. Bone spurs tend to develop over many years; therefore, ulnar nerve symptoms will be gradual. A patient should schedule an appointment with his doctor if he begins to notice symptoms of ulnar nerve damage. The doctor will likely take an X-ray to see if a bone spur is compressing the ulnar nerve. An MRI may be necessary to determine the exact location of the bone spur. If this is the case, surgery may be necessary to remove the bone spur.
Swelling
Swelling of the elbow joint can cause ulnar nerve damage, states the AAOS. Swelling occurs in response to inflammation, than can occur with arthritis or injury to the elbow joint. Swelling increases the amount of fluid in a joint, which results in an increased pressure in the elbow joint. An increase in pressure leads to compression of the ulnar nerve, which may cause damage. Thus, a patient with an elbow condition or injury should control swelling with ice therapy, mediations, elevations of the elbow joint and light elbow exercise. Uncontrolled or unresolved swelling requires medical treatment to prevent ulnar nerve damage.
