What causes Ulnar Neuropathy?
Ulnar neuropathy is caused by inflammation due to compression of the ulnar nerve. This can occur from repetitive wrist or elbow movements, motions that continuously stretch the ulnar nerve (such as gripping a bicycle’s handlebars or leaning arms on a desk while using a computer) or from trauma to the nerve anywhere along the path of the nerve (although trauma most commonly occurs in the elbow or wrist). This is a common injury among cyclists due to the repetitive bumps and bounces that can irritate the ulnar nerve while riding. Certain medical conditions can also cause ulnar nerve inflammation or damage, such as diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and infections. Ulnar neuropathy is more likely to occur in men than women and is more likely in older adults since it typically has a gradual onset of symptoms. What are the symptoms of Ulnar Neuropathy? The primary symptoms of ulnar neuropathy include weakness, numbness, tingling and pain that occur along the elbow, the underside of the forearm
