The Case of the Burning Pinky

Abstract Pain and paresthesias affecting the fifth digit may be caused by lesions affecting the lower cervical spine roots, brachial plexus, or the ulnar nerve. Cubital tunnel syndrome is the most common compression neuropathy affecting the ulnar nerve. Cubital tunnel syndrome commonly presents with sensation abnormalities in the fourth and fifth digits with positive Tinel’s sign at the elbow. Cubital tunnel syndrome can arise from ulnar nerve compression at the ulnar groove or between two heads of the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle proximally. This chapter reviews the signs and symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome and discusses its evaluation and diagnosis. It also discusses treatment considerations.