Therapeutic exercise
Ulnar Nerve Glide (Batman Mask)
Neural mobilization of the ulnar nerve along its path through the elbow (cubital tunnel) and wrist (Guyon's canal). Indicated for cubital tunnel syndrome, medial epicondylitis with a neural component, and triceps tendinopathy — the mask-shaped movement around the eyes releases the nerve from adhesions.
How to perform
- Starting position. Stand with the arms extended at the sides.
- Step 2. Raise the affected arm to shoulder height, with the elbow flexed at 90° and the forearm pointing upward.
- Step 3. Touch the tip of the thumb to the tip of the index finger forming an O (OK sign).
- Step 4. Bring the O-shaped hand close to the face, tracing around the eye socket — as if putting on a Batman mask.
- Return. Return slowly to the starting position and repeat. The movement should relieve tingling or pain in the little finger and ring finger — if it worsens, that indicates neural overload.
When not to perform
- Acute ulnar neuritis with motor loss
- Recent ulnar nerve dislocation in the epitrochlear groove
- Post-operative ulnar transposition (respect surgical protocol)
- Recent fracture of the distal humerus or olecranon
- Advanced peripheral neuropathy (diabetes, alcoholism)
- Progressive neurological symptoms requiring reassessment
Medical disclaimer. These exercises are presented for informational purposes only. Always consult your physician before starting any exercise program, especially in case of acute pain, recent injury, or underlying clinical condition.
Related Exercises
Elbow Extension Stretch
Passive stretch of the elbow flexors (biceps brachii, brachialis, brachioradialis) in full extension. Useful in cubital tunnel syndrome, where prolonged flexion increases pressure on the ulnar nerve — maintaining extension mobility is both preventive and therapeutic.
Triceps Isometric Wall Hold
Isometric contraction of the triceps brachii in elbow extension against a wall. The first stage of triceps tendinopathy treatment at the olecranon insertion — produces immediate analgesia without overloading the reactive tendon.
Overhead Triceps Stretch
Classic stretch of the triceps brachii in its proximal portion (long head). Fundamental in the treatment of triceps tendinopathy — maintains tendinous flexibility while eccentric loading remodels the tendon.