Anyone had elbow surgery?

[MusicalFurbaby]

Hi friends, as some of you know, I’ve been diagnosed with cubital tunnel syndrome, similar to carpel tunnel but in the elbow instead of the wrist. The ulnar nerve is slipping in and out of it’s groove, and it’s causing nerve inflammation, tingling, numbness and freezing/locking of the hand. Hardest things to do include chopping veggies, stirring food, holding a mug or jug, and sometimes using cutlery. Using a computer mouse isn’t so crash-hot either.

I saw a specialist physio a few days ago and he said that while we can try conservative measures, they may not help me as my problem is mechanical. They think lupus has not cause this, but it’s possible lupus may be contributing to the resulting nerve inflammation. So I’m wearing a stocking on my elbow during the day and a solid splint at night, but apart from that, all I can do is avoid using it (how do you keep your arm completely straight all day?) and wait for it to get better (which won’t work because it’s been getting steadily worse over the past 6-9 months).

While I am yet to see the surgeon for their advice, it’s pretty likely that I’ll be getting surgery.

Has anyone else had this? Tips? Pointers? Other things I can try?

[seniorzala]

Hi,MusicalFurbaby,

You have to release the stuck nerves.

Senior

[MusicalFurbaby in reply to seniorzala]

Actually, the problem is that the nerve is unstuck - it’s slipping out of place repeatedly.

[seniorzala in reply to MusicalFurbaby]

ENG examiation is mandatory for a definitive diagnosis.

Senior

[MusicalFurbaby in reply to seniorzala]

What is that?

[DebbieJ6894]

I have had the same problem in my right elbow for about 15 years, though it doesn't sound as bad as yours is. I was told at the time that I could have it operated on or I could try amitriptyline which might help. The amitriptyline - 20mg per day - does help though I still notice it. It might be worth asking if you could try this?

[MusicalFurbaby in reply to DebbieJ6894]

Hi Debbie, thanks for replying. It’s worth thinking about - not sure if it will help as the problem is mechanical, but thanks for the suggestion.

[seniorzala]

Will show the extent of nerve /simple biophysical test/if you have typical mechanikal problem at the elbow ,it is more likely tennis elbow syndrome. Be sure to see a neurologist who may refer younto hand surgeon.

The sonner the better the chance at recovery if left untrealed, it could be a constans tingling sensation,possibly accompanied by muscle atrophy.

Senior

[MusicalFurbaby in reply to seniorzala]

Thanks Senior, that all makes sense. Will definitely get it seen - I don’t want to risk nerve damage!

[MusicalFurbaby]

UPDATE: so I saw the surgeon and he said there is no way conservative measures will help me, and I definitely need the surgery! I’m booked in for surgery today. He’s gonna do a cubital tunnel ‘release and transposition’. Never had anything like this before, so if you have, please let me know your tips for recovery. I’m a writer and pianist, so use of my hand is very important!