left elbow pain/inner arm

[curious6444]

Hello - I am having left elbow pain - a recent emg showed minimal slowing of the ulnar nerve. The pain/discomfort is constant in the inner elbow area above the bone and radiates up the inner part of the arm for a couple of inches. The Dr's are trying to determine if the pain is just related to the ulnar nerve -possible compression, nerve transposition needed? -or whether the irritation/pain is more medial epicondylitis(golfers elbow) or even both. I am 46 yo female - and trying to decide if moving the ulnar nerve - decompression/transposition -surgery would benefit me or if it would not be helpful since the pain is in the upper inner arm too? possibly cortisone injection instead to try first?  I am scheduled for an MRI tomorrow ---but scheduled for the surgery on 8/2/10 - -how do I know if the tendons are more the problem than the nerve? I assume the MRI will help - I am just very nervous about making the right decision. I am left-handed and my job involves computer work full-time. Your assistance and advice would be extremely appreciated! Thanks in advance!

[curious6444]

Thanks so much for the quick response! The MRI was negative for tendon or muscle involvement - therefore ruled out medial epicondylitis. The pain is all related to the ulnar nerve - thus cubital tunnel syndrome/ulnar neuritis diagnosis confirmed. Surgery is scheduled for 8/2/10 - thanks again for your help! It is so nice to have this type of forum available for assistance. Your expertise is appreciated by many. :)

[Dr Vinod]

Hello!

MRIs will diagnose any soft tissue complications involving your tendons, ligaments or muscles so discuss with your orthopedician and radiologist after the MRI.

Take care!