Ulnar nerve glide exercises
Ulnar nerve glide 1.png

Start in position 1 and slowly move into position 2, applying a gentle stretch to the neck wrist and elbow.


Keep your shoulder down and relaxed with your other arm. 


Go back to position 1, and repeat 5 to 10 times, depending on how it feels for you.

ulnar nerve 1.png

 

 

 

 

Begin with your arm out, palm side of the hand facing up.

 

ulnar nerve 2.png

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bend the elbow toward you, palm side facing you.

ulnar nerve 3.png

 

 

 

 

Rotate the palm of your hand outwards and bend your wrist so that your fingers are pointing towards you.

ulnar nerve 4.png

 

 

 

 

 

Twist your wrist so that the palm of your hand is now facing upward.

ulnar nerve 5.png

While your wrist remains bent, stretch your arm into a straight position, with your fingers bent towards the floor.

Whilst performing these exercises it is expected you will experience a degree of discomfort including a ‘pulling’ sensation and potentially tingling in your arm/hand. You should only take the movement up to the point it becomes painful not beyond. However, these symptoms should go away immediately or within a few minutes of finishing the exercise. If you experience any ongoing, new pain after doing any of these exercises you should discontinue that exercise until reviewed by your hand therapist.

Contact details
Hand therapy departments:

0300 6133396 for Frimley

0300 6140540 then Option 2 Wexham or Option 3 for Heatherwood

Contact us

If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Hand therapy service.

About this information

Service:
Hand therapy

Reference:
UU/095

Approval date:
23 February 2026

Review date:
1 February 2029

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Important note 

This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.