15 Causes & Triggers of Hand Swelling You Shouldn’t Ignore (List)

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

This is a condition when the ulnar nerve, which goes from the neck through the elbow and toward the pinky finger, is pinched due to a repetitive strain injury. While there are different causes for cubital tunnel syndrome, the elbow usually primarily affects the ulnar nerve. As such, those who have a habit of suddenly bending the elbow (such as through sports) could eventually get cubital tunnel syndrome if they aren’t careful. As a result, you could experience pain by bending the elbow, causing numbness in the hands. It can also lead to swelling of the arms and hands, depending on the severity of the condition. Fortunately, there are ways you can potentially avoid the situation, mainly consisting of exercises designed to help ease the ulnar nerve.

Those who suffer from cubital tunnel syndrome have no reason to worry about a link to more severe health conditions. Recovery involves taking care of how you bend your elbow and letting time do the rest of the work. It might lead to surgery in more severe cases, but such a situation is rare.