Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

What is the MOST likely diagnosis for a patient with ulnar side pain exacerbated by elbow flexion and a positive Tinel's sign?

1. Lateral epicondylitis

2. Cubital tunnel syndrome

3. Radial tunnel syndrome

4. Carpal tunnel syndrome

The correct answer is: Cubital tunnel syndrome

The diagnosis of cubital tunnel syndrome is strongly indicated by the symptoms described, particularly the ulnar side pain and the positive Tinel's sign. This condition arises when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated, commonly occurring in the cubital tunnel at the elbow. The ulnar side pain is characteristic because the ulnar nerve innervates the small finger and part of the ring finger, and the symptoms can worsen with activities that involve elbow flexion due to increased pressure on the nerve in the tunnel. A positive Tinel's sign specifically indicates nerve irritation, where tapping over the ulnar nerve at the elbow elicits tingling or pain in the distribution of the nerve. This finding directly supports the diagnosis of cubital tunnel syndrome, distinguishing it from other conditions not primarily affecting the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Other conditions like lateral epicondylitis, radial tunnel syndrome, and carpal tunnel syndrome primarily involve different structures or mechanisms. Lateral epicondylitis refers to pain on the outer elbow related to overuse of the forearm muscles, while radial tunnel syndrome often presents with pain in the forearm but not usually with a positive Tinel's sign over the ulnar nerve. Carpal tunnel syndrome