So tired of living with this
Hi so I'm 20 years old and have been dealing with cubital tunnel syndrome for almost two years now. I was misdiagnosed for the first year and barely was able to see an actual orthopedist about 2-3 months ago. She confirmed I needed ulnar nerve transposition surgery in both arms after X-rays, MRIS, and a nerve conduction study test.
Unfortunately though now is a very very bad time for me to get surgery. I decided to plan the surgery at the end of the year when things have calmed down at work, and also other events in my life. The orthopedist said it would be okay to do so as long as symptoms don't worsen. I am happy I finally have received help but I'm so tired of living like this. It's so restricting. It destroyed my confidence, and I had to completely change my day to day life just to ensure it does not worsen or flare up.
I use to workout all the time and was so confident with my physique. I originally thought it was a tendon issue and my doctor manipulated me into thinking it was just that. At first I had only minor pain in my inner elbow, but eventually I started getting numbness and tinglyness from my triceps area down to my ring and pinky finger. Both arms. She did not give me any sort of tests and kept pushing me away. This caused it to get worse of course. I had to switch my primary doctor and he finally was able to get me the help I needed. My symptoms are so bipolar. I only flare up if I keep my arms bent too long or if my posture sucks. I usually do not get numbness or tinglyness unless i tap my tricep/elbow area. My nerve is subluxating though.
I honestly HATE my old doctor. I could've caught it early on and I would more than likely be okay by now. I hate Kaiser it's awful. Anyways, my life has changed drastically. Last year I was at my lowest point ever trying to live with this injury. At one point I almost ended my own life. I've developed depression and have to go to therapy all because of a stupid nerve problem lol. Might need to go on anti depressants soon, therapy is not working. At least now I learned to manage it much better. I just have to cope and remain stupidly optimistic just to keep going on.
I made this post to rant and because I want to feel seen. No one understands. No one in my life, no one besides the people who have dealt or are dealing with this. To those who feel the same way, I want you to know we will get better eventually.