The ulnar nerve runs from your neck, through your shoulder and elbow, and down into your hand. It’s responsible for sensation in your ring and pinky fingers and plays a key role in fine motor control.
When the nerve becomes compressed-especially around the elbow (in the cubital tunnel)-you may experience:
- Tingling or numbness in the ring and pinky fingers
- Weak grip strength
- Clumsiness when handling small objects
- Elbow pain that worsens when the arm is bent
This condition is called ulnar nerve entrapment, and it’s more common than you might think-especially in athletes, desk workers, and people with repetitive arm motions.
How Ulnar Nerve Therapy Helps
If you’re dealing with symptoms, don’t wait for them to go away on their own. At Triangle Physiotherapy, our team offers targeted, evidence-based ulnar nerve therapy to reduce pressure, improve mobility, and prevent long-term damage.
Here’s what your recovery journey might look like:
1. Assessment & Diagnosis
Your physiotherapist will evaluate your symptoms, movement patterns, posture, and arm function to pinpoint where the nerve is being compressed. This helps rule out other conditions like cervical spine issues or carpal tunnel syndrome.
2. Pain Relief & Protection
In the early stages, we focus on reducing inflammation and minimizing irritation:
- Activity modification (especially avoiding prolonged elbow flexion)
- Ergonomic advice for work and sleep positions
- Gentle modalities to calm irritated tissue
3. Ulnar Nerve Glides
One of the most powerful tools in your recovery toolbox? Ulnar nerve glides.
These are gentle, controlled movements that “floss” the nerve through its pathway-freeing it from areas of compression and restoring its mobility. You’ll learn how to perform them safely and effectively as part of your rehab program.
Bonus: These glides also improve circulation to the nerve, which can accelerate healing and reduce symptoms.
4. Strengthening & Mobility Work
As symptoms improve, your therapist will guide you through a tailored strengthening program to stabilize your shoulder, elbow, and wrist. This may include:
- Grip strengthening
- Postural retraining
- Core and scapular stabilization
- Stretching tight structures that may be contributing to compression
5. Return to Sport or Daily Activity
Whether you’re swinging a tennis racket, lifting weights, or typing for hours a day, we’ll help you safely return to your routine with confidence. We focus on:
- Rebuilding endurance
- Optimizing technique
- Preventing re-irritation
Where to Find Expert Ulnar Nerve Therapy in the GTA
Looking for physiotherapy in North York, Oakville, or Etobicoke? Triangle Physiotherapy has you covered.
Our experienced team offers hands-on treatment and personalized care to address ulnar nerve entrapment and get you back to doing what you love-pain-free and stronger than before.
How to Prevent Ulnar Nerve Issues Long-Term
- Avoid prolonged elbow flexion (especially during sleep)
- Keep good posture during desk work
- Strengthen your upper body to support your arms
- Perform ulnar nerve glides as recommended
- Listen to early signs-don’t ignore the tingling!
Ready to Take the Pressure Off?
You don’t have to live with tingling hands, weak grip, or elbow pain. Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or a dedicated desk worker, ulnar nerve therapy can make a life-changing difference.
Book your appointment today at Triangle Physiotherapy-serving patients across Etobicoke, North York, Oakville, and the Greater Toronto Area.
Let’s get your nerves firing on all cylinders again-no numbness, no limits.
