Ulnar nerve; occupational causes of compression across elbow

ABSTRACT

To determine the etiology of ulnar nerve compression across the elbow. Retrospective and descriptive. At AFIRM Rawalpindi. From Jan 2000 to Jan 2004. 267 cases of Ulnar Nerve Compression at elbow diagnosed after electro-physiological studies were selected. Most of the patients with a variety of complaints were referred to Rehabilitation Medical Department, Rawalpindi [AFIRM] for diagnostic evaluation [NCS/EMG] and management. Out of 267 patients 210 [78.65%] were males and 57 [21%] were females. The mean age was 35 yrs [Range 9-67yrs]. Most of the patients 180 [67.41%] had left sided Ulnar nerve compression at elbow where as 87 [32.59%] suffered on Right side. The most common mode of presentation were paraesthesia 234 [88%], pain 166 [44%] and weakness of intrinsic hand muscles 104 [27%]. Electro-physiological evaluation shows prevalence of occupational 121 [45%] and traumatic 51 [21%] causes. Management of Ulnar never compression must include a comprehensive rehabilitation program that should focus on postural correction and workstation modification along with pharmacological and surgical advice