To investigate the clinical therapeutic effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the
treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome. Methods: Seven patients (10 elbows) with moderate cubital
tunnel syndrome participated in this study. Three sessions of radial extracorporeal shock wave therapy
(2,000 shots, 4 Bar, 5 Hz) (once a week) were administered to the ulnar nerve at the proximal cubital
tunnel region. The primary and secondary outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale
(VAS) and the shortened Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (Quick DASH),
respectively, at the 4th, 8th, and 12th week, following the 3rd session of shock wave therapy. Results:
The VAS and Quick DASH scores demonstrated improvements at all follow-up time points, in all
treated elbows. The mean VAS and Quick DASH score improved from 4.7±0.3(mean±SE) to2.2±0.2
and 16.6±2.1to 6.8±1.6 respectively during 12 weeks follow up (all p <0.01).
Conclusion: This pilot study revealed the safety and efficacy of extracorporeal shock wave therapy
in patients with moderate cubital tunnel syndrome.