When an individual experiences elbow pain and tingling fingers, it can make daily tasks difficult. It is important to note that the elbow joint is comprised of cartilage, bone, tendons, ligaments and fluid. Any injury to any of these structures can lead to the development of elbow issues. The elbow pain and tingling fingers can be triggered by certain conditions in the neck and shoulder in uncommon cases.
Once an individual suffers from persistent pain in the elbow that is accompanied by tingling fingers, it is best to consult a doctor. Proper assessment and tests might be required to rule out health conditions.
Entrapment of the ulnar nerve
Once the ulnar nerve is trapped, it can be a source of elbow pain or discomfort along with tingling fingers. Remember that this condition is triggered by compression of the ulnar nerve which is one of the several large-sized nerves that travel through the arm.
The ulnar nerve provides sensation to the little finger and half of the ring finger and responsible for most of the small-sized muscles in the hand that help with fine motor movements. Even though there are several locations in the arm where the ulnar nerve can become trapped, the common site is behind the elbow. The common symptoms linked with ulnar nerve entrapment behind the elbow include the pins and needles sensation in the ring and little fingers, particularly when the elbow is bent and aching pain on the interior of the elbow.
Cervical radiculopathy
Cervical radiculopathy can cause elbow pain and tingling fingers. This is caused by compression of a nerve root in the neck as it leaves the spinal column. The nerve roots in the neck exit the spinal column and go down to the arm to supply sensation to the skin and provide power to the arm muscles.
The cervical spine nerve roots that are crushed by a herniated disc or bone spurs can trigger pain in the distribution of the affected nerve, usually around the elbow and tingling in some fingers. In most circumstances, muscle weakness and numbness are also symptoms of this condition.
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Thoracic outlet syndrome is known to trigger elbow and forearm pain along with tingling fingers. This condition is due to the compression of the brachial plexus. There are 3 forms of thoracic outlet syndrome with unique set of symptoms. The syndrome is quite common among women and tends to manifest at around 20-50 years old.
Depending on the exact cause of the elbow pain and tingling fingers, it is best to schedule an appointment with a doctor so that the exact cause can be determined as well as start the appropriate treatment.