Ulnar Nerve Subluxation: Post-Surgery Concerns and Solutions - Orthopedics

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Ulnar nerve subluxation is a condition where the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inner side of the elbow, becomes displaced or moves out of its normal position, especially during certain movements of the arm. This can lead to symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and weakness in the hand and fingers. Surgical intervention is often considered when conservative treatments fail to alleviate symptoms or if the subluxation is severe.

After surgery for ulnar nerve subluxation, it is not uncommon for patients to experience lingering symptoms or concerns about the stability of the nerve. The fact that you are still experiencing subluxation when bending your elbow beyond 90 degrees suggests that the surgical procedure may not have fully resolved the issue, or that the nerve may still be susceptible to movement under certain conditions.


Understanding Your Concerns
1. Persistence of Symptoms: It is important to understand that while surgery aims to stabilize the ulnar nerve and reduce symptoms, it may not always restore the nerve to its original state. Some patients may continue to experience subluxation or related symptoms, especially if the nerve was significantly compromised prior to surgery.

2. Long-term Outlook: The long-term outlook for individuals with ulnar nerve subluxation can vary. Some patients may find that their symptoms improve over time, while others may continue to experience issues. It is essential to have realistic expectations and understand that complete normalization may not be achievable for everyone.

3. Surgical Options: If the current surgical intervention did not yield the desired results, there may be additional surgical options available. These could include procedures to further stabilize the nerve, such as transposition of the ulnar nerve, which involves moving the nerve to a different position where it is less likely to subluxate. Discussing these options with a hand surgeon or a specialist in peripheral nerve surgery may provide you with more clarity.

4. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can also be beneficial. A physical therapist can work with you to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and improve your range of motion, which may help alleviate some symptoms and reduce the risk of further subluxation.

5. Monitoring and Follow-up: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon or neurologist are crucial. They can monitor your progress, assess the stability of the nerve, and determine if further intervention is necessary. If you feel that your concerns are not being adequately addressed, seeking a second opinion from another specialist may provide additional insights.


Conclusion
In summary, while it is understandable to feel anxious about the ongoing subluxation of your ulnar nerve post-surgery, it is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare providers. They can help you navigate your treatment options and provide support as you work towards managing your symptoms. Remember that recovery can be a gradual process, and patience, along with appropriate medical guidance, is key to achieving the best possible outcome. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare team for assistance.