When I became a lawyer way back in 1997, my first boss was talking to me about how I would have to learn about various medical problems that end up being work comp cases in Illinois. Being too smart for my own good I figured that couldn’t be that hard. I was a big sports fan and new about all sorts of injuries. But in the first week on the job I realized I had a lot to learn when I was assigned a case with an injury that I had never heard of. Cubital tunnel syndrome.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition that affects the elbow and hand, and for many Illinois workers, it develops because of what they do on the job. If it’s not treated, it can interfere with grip strength, hand coordination, and the ability to perform even simple tasks at work. Many people think of back or shoulder injuries when they hear “work injury,” but damage to the nerves in the arm can be just as disruptive.
Cubital tunnel syndrome involves the ulnar nerve, which runs from the neck down the arm and passes through a narrow space at the inside of the elbow. It’s also called the “funny bone nerve.” When that nerve becomes compressed or irritated, symptoms often show up in the ring finger and pinky finger. Workers may feel tingling, numbness, aching in the elbow, or weakness in the hand. These symptoms often come and go at first, making it easy to ignore them until the problem becomes more serious.
This injury is an incredibly common case in the Illinois work comp world. Jobs that require repeated bending of the elbow, constant hand and arm movements, or keeping the elbow in the same position for long periods can slowly irritate the ulnar nerve. Leaning on hard surfaces, working in tight spaces, or using tools that vibrate can also contribute to the problem.
One time accidents can also cause cubital tunnel injuries. A fall, blow to the elbow, or sudden strain can damage the nerve and trigger lasting symptoms. Under Illinois workers’ compensation law, both sudden injuries and repetitive trauma injuries qualify for benefits if work played a part in causing or worsening the condition.
Cubital tunnel syndrome is more likely in jobs that place ongoing stress on the arms and elbows. This includes factory and production workers, mechanics, electricians, construction workers, warehouse employees, delivery drivers, and maintenance workers. Office workers who spend long hours at desks or using keyboards can also develop this condition. But of course it is a problem that can happen to anyone in any job.
Treatment for cubital tunnel usually starts with less invasive options. We can not give medical advice, but strongly recommend that you get with an orthopedic doctor who specializes on arm injuries ASAP. Doctors may recommend limiting certain activities, wearing an elbow brace, or changing work duties to reduce pressure on the nerve. Physical therapy and medications may help manage symptoms and prevent further nerve damage.
But if symptoms continue or worsen, surgery may be required to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve or reposition it to prevent continued irritation. Recovery can take time, and some workers may not be able to return to the same type of job right away without restrictions.
Cubital tunnel claims can be difficult to manage on your own for two reasons. One, because they often develop gradually, and two, insurance companies like to argue that the symptoms are not related to work, or they are caused by everyday activities outside the job. That is because everyone, of course, uses there arms every day outside of work as well.
We have handled hundreds of cubital tunnel cases and would love to help you. We know how to connect the dots between job duties and the injury. There is no fee to talk to us or hire us. We have a state wide network of experienced attorneys, so we can help you anywhere in Illinois. If you would like a free consultation, please contact us at 312-346-5578.