Causes

The aetiology of ulnar nerve entrapment also called cubital tunnel syndrome or sulcus ulnaris syndrome at the elbow is unknown. Due to the restricted space and the different anatomical locations the ulnar nerve can be easily compressed. The pathology is thought to origin from of the following causes:

Degeneration of the cervical spine

Fracture and dislocation to the elbow, causing nerve compression, or cubital tunnel syndrome

Pressure on the ulnar nerve caused by long periods of leaning on the elbows direct blow to the elbow at the "funny bone"

Repetitive and prolonged bending of the elbow

Cyst in the elbow

Fracture and dislocation to the wrist causing nerve compression at the Guyon's canal, or Guyon's canal syndrome.