Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome

A common cause of arm pain, tingling, numbness and hand weakness is Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome. There is a nerve that runs through the small groove in the elbow, called the Ulnar Nerve. When that groove narrows, there can be pressure on the nerve, resulting in pain that radiates from the inside of the elbow to the little finger or palm of the hand. Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome occurs more often in women than men, and is typically more common in the 30-40 year old.

Common causes of Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome include obesity, activities that cause pressure in the area, resting the elbow on the desk or arm rest, injury to the elbow or arthritis. Some women note Ulnar nerve pain or numbness during pregnancy, which often resolves after delivery.

The test of choice for diagnosis of Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome is a nerve conduction test- called EMG

There are several treatments for Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome. The providers at the Neurosurgery Center of Colorado can evaluate and treat this disorder.

Trigeminal Neuralgia

Some people experience severe, intermittent pain in the face that could be related to the facial nerve. There are 12 nerves (called cranial nerves) deep within the brain. The fifth cranial is responsible for sending messages to the face, including pain, temperature, and sensation. In some people, there is pressure or sensitivity of the 5^th cranial nerve that results in severe, intermittent pain in the cheeks/forehead or behind the eye- this is commonly referred to as trigeminal neuralgia.

Trigeminal neuralgia occurs more often in women than men, and is more commonly diagnosed after the fourth or fifth decade of live (though it can occur in younger persons).

The pain is often described as sharp/sudden/severe/stabbing or electric shock. The pain can occur at any time, but is often triggered by cold wind/brushing teeth/chewing/ or talking. Some people report pain when swallowing.

Treatment for trigeminal neuralgia can include medications, injections or surgery.

The specialists at the Neurosurgery Center of Colorado can help to diagnose and treat Trigeminal Neuralgia.

Neurosurgeon or Neurologist

What is the difference between a Neurosurgeon and a Neurologist? There is frequent confusion about the difference between a Neurosurgeon and a Neurologist. Both are physicians with a MD or a DO degree, and  both are specialists who have advanced training in the treatment conditions of that effect the brain, spine and nervous system. The difference often lies in the conditions that each specialist treats.

Neurosurgeons are physicians who treat conditions that require surgery. For example, a neurosurgeon performs surgery to remove a brain or spinal tumor.

Neurologists do not perform surgery, and treat conditions that can respond to medications, injections, etc. For example, a Neurologist treats disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson’s disease.

If you have a condition that may require surgery, please contact the Neurosurgery Center of Colorado for evaluation.