Which nerve is primarily affected by cubital tunnel syndrome?

• A. Radial Nerve
• B. Ulnar Nerve
• C. Median Nerve
• D. Musculocutaneous Nerve

Answer: (B)

Cubital tunnel syndrome primarily affects the ulnar nerve. This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated at the elbow, specifically as it passes through the cubital tunnel. The cubital tunnel is located on the inner part of the elbow, and the ulnar nerve can be subjected to pressure in this area due to various factors such as direct trauma, prolonged elbow flexion, or repetitive stress.

As the ulnar nerve travels through the forearm into the hand, it innervates several muscles responsible for fine motor control and sensation, particularly in the ring and little fingers. Symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome can include numbness and tingling in these fingers, weakness in grip strength, and pain on the inner side of the elbow. This specific pathology emphasizes the role of the ulnar nerve as being critical in this condition, distinguishing it from the other nerves listed, which do not have the same association with cubital tunnel syndrome.