Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow-laterality, disability, and associated conditions

Abstract

Ulnar Neuropathy of the Elbow (UNE) is the second most common entrapment neuropathy. In this study, we aimed to determine the factors that may guide diagnosis and treatment by examining the electrodiagnostic (EDX), demographic data and upper extremity-related disability levels of patients with UNE. Demographic characteristics, symptom duration, EDX data and any other accompanying entrapment neuropathy, and the shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Injuries Questionnaire (Quick-DASH) scores were noted. The laterality, localization, factors associated with the severity of UNE, and the impact of the presence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) on disability have been studied in detail. 92 arms of 73 patients were included. The mean age of the patients was 47.71±13.99 years. 41 (56.2%) were male and 32 (43.8%) were female. 29 (39.7%) patients had at least one comorbid disease. Of the patients, 30 (41%) had left-sided UNE, 24 (33%) had right-sided UNE and 19 (26%) had bilateral UNE. The median symptom duration was 3 (1-12) months. 28 (38.4%) patients had also CTS. The median Quick-DASH score was 28 (9-80). There was also no significant association between UNE side and age or gender (p=0.439 and p=0.216, respectively). In 62 (67.4%) patients, the site of compression was 2 cm proximal to the medial epicondyle (ME). Symptom duration was statistically significantly longer in the moderate group than in the mild group, and in the severe group than in the mild UNE group (p [Med-Science 2024; 13(3.000): 616-20]

Keywords

• laterality
• ulnar nerve
• ulnar neuropathy at the elbow