Evaluation and Treatment of Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome

1. Nerves: Anatomy, Location, and Basic Function of the Ulnar Nerve

This chapter provides an overview of nerve cell function, origins, pathways, and branching patterns that can contribute to the varied clinical presentation seen with ulnar nerve compression at Guyon’s canal. Course participants will explore the tunnels and the superficial fascial system of the wrist to gain understanding of the causes and risks for ulnar nerve compression.

2. Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome Imposters

This chapter will explore the necessary differential diagnosis for clients that present to the clinic with ulnar-sided numbness or tingling. Screening for and ruling out conditions such as cervical radiculopathy, neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome, and cubital tunnel syndrome will increase your confidence in your treatment diagnosis and lead to more effective treatment interventions.

3. Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome Evaluation

This chapter will use a basic clinical examination to further differentiate between the types of nerve compression at the ulnar tunnel. Special tests will assist with determining level of entrapment in identifying if the deep motor branch is affected, the superficial sensory branch is affected, or the main branch (affecting both sensory and motor nerves) is affected. Lastly, this chapter will provide a scaffolding to assess nerve glide ability.

4. Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome Treatment

This chapter will integrate learning from previous chapters regarding differential diagnosis and focus on interventions specifically for conservative management of ulnar tunnel syndrome. Participants will explore video footage of a treatment session to further appreciate in-session gains in neural mobility from nerve gliding.