Ulnar nerve entrapment occurs when structures, such as muscles, bones, or ligaments, put too much pressure on a nerve, leading to numbness, tingling, pain, and in severe cases, muscle weakness or atrophy (wasting away). The ulnar nerve can be entrapped in the elbow or wrist.
This article discusses the symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of ulnar nerve entrapment.
Types of Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
The ulnar nerve is one of the terminal branches (main nerves) of the brachial plexus—a network of nerves that runs through your arms. The ulnar nerve provides sensation to the inside of your forearm, the pinky side of your hand, your pinky finger, and half of the ring finger. This nerve also supplies muscles that help bend your wrists and fingers, spread your fingers apart, and bring them back together.
