Ulnar nerve dysfunction
Alternative Names
Neuropathy - ulnar nerve; Ulnar nerve palsySymptoms
Abnormal sensations in the 4th or 5th fingers
Numbness, decreased sensation
Tingling, burning sensation
Pain
Weakness of the hand
Pain or numbness may awaken the patient from sleep. The condition is made worse by activities such as tennis or golf.
Exams and Tests
An exam of the hand and wrist can reveal ulnar nerve dysfunction. There may be weakness of wrist and hand bending and difficulty moving the fingers. Severe cases may display wasting of the hand muscles or a characteristic "claw-like" deformity. A detailed history may be needed to determine the possible cause of the neuropathy.
Tests that reveal ulnar nerve dysfunction may include an EMG (a recording of electrical activity in muscles) and nerve conduction tests. Other tests may include blood tests, x-rays, and imaging scans.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by
URAC, also known as the American
Accreditation HealthCare Commission. URAC's accreditation program is
the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and
accountability, verified by independent audit.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2005 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.