Ulnar Neuropathy (Handlebar Palsy) Rehabilitation Exercises

You may do all of these exercises right away.

• Neck range of motion exercises
  1. Neck rotation: Sit in a chair, keeping your neck, shoulders, and trunk straight. First, turn your head slowly to the right. Move it gently to the point of pain. Move it back to the forward position. Relax. Then move it to the left. Repeat 10 times.
  2. Neck side bend: Tilt your head so that your right ear moves toward your right shoulder. Move it to the point of pain. Then tilt your head so your left ear moves toward your left shoulder. Make sure you do not rotate your head while tilting or raise your shoulder toward your head. Repeat this exercise 10 times in each direction.
  3. Neck flexion: Bend your head forward, reaching your chin toward your chest. Hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 10 times.
  4. Neck extension: Bring your head back so that your chin is pointing toward the ceiling. Repeat 10 times.
• Scapular range of motion: Stand and shrug your shoulders up and hold for 5 seconds. Then squeeze your shoulder blades back and together and hold 5 seconds. Next, pull your shoulder blades downward as if putting them in your back pocket. Relax. Repeat this sequence 10 times.
• Elbow range of motion: Gently bring your palm up toward your shoulder and bend your elbow as far as you can. Then straighten your elbow as far as you can 10 times. Do 3 sets of 10.
• Wrist range of motion: Bend your wrist forward and backward as far as you can. Do 3 sets of 10.
• Straight finger flexion: Make a right angle with your knuckles and keep your fingers straight. Hold this position for 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times.
• Finger squeeze: Practice squeezing items between each of the fingers on your injured hand. You can use paper, pens, and sponges. Hold for 10 seconds. Repeat 5 times for each finger.
• Grip strengthening: Squeeze a rubber ball and hold for 5 seconds. Do 3 sets of 10.