Ulnar Nerve Irritation (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome) – Southampton Physio
Introduction
Tingling or numbness in your ring and little fingers – especially after long hours at a desk or during sleep – can be a sign of ulnar nerve irritation, often called cubital tunnel syndrome. At Southampton Physio, we specialise in helping people recover from nerve-related elbow pain through clear assessment, targeted exercise and strength-based rehabilitation – so you can get back to work, sport and daily life without fear of recurrence.
Understanding Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
The ulnar nerve travels from the neck down the arm and passes behind the bony bump of the elbow. When that narrow space – the cubital tunnel – is compressed or irritated, it can cause:
- Tingling or numbness in the little and ring fingers
- Weak grip or hand coordination
- Aching on the inner elbow, worse with bending or leaning
- Night-time tingling that disturbs sleep
Most cases are reversible. The goal of physiotherapy is to reduce irritation, restore free nerve movement and strengthen the arm to stop it returning.
How Physiotherapy Helps
Our clinicians follow three evidence-based steps:
- Calm the nerve and reduce load – modify posture, avoid direct pressure and adjust your workstation.
- Mobilise and re-educate – gentle ulnar nerve glides and mobility work for the shoulder and wrist.
- Rebuild strength and resilience – progressive resistance training for grip, triceps and upper limb.
Hands-on treatment may ease short-term discomfort, but active rehabilitation is what creates lasting change. Research shows most mild-to-moderate cases respond well to education, splinting and exercise within 6–12 weeks. (BSSH 2024; Caliandro et al., 2025 Cochrane Review)
When to Seek Further Help
Contact a clinician promptly if you notice:
- Constant numbness or worsening tingling
- Loss of grip strength or hand dexterity
- Visible muscle wasting in the hand
These symptoms may need nerve conduction testing or surgical opinion. Surgery is usually reserved for persistent or severe cases and is followed by guided rehabilitation.
Preventing Future Flare-Ups
- Keep elbows straighter during desk work and sleep.
- Avoid leaning on hard surfaces - pad armrests if needed.
- Maintain shoulder and wrist mobility.
- Build strength gradually; do not rush load progression.
- Review your workstation height and keyboard position.
Ongoing coaching through our Stay Stronger for Longer programme helps many patients keep symptoms away for good.
Booking
Book Your Assessment in Southampton
If tingling or elbow discomfort is limiting your work or training, our friendly team can help. Located in Bedford Place, Southampton, we offer appointments mornings, evenings and weekends.
Disclaimer
This information is for education only and is not a substitute for personal medical advice. Consult a qualified professional for individual care.