Between which muscles does the ulnar nerve pass, often becoming entrapped?

The ulnar nerve passes between the flexor carpi ulnaris and the flexor digitorum profundus. This anatomical location is significant because it is a common site for ulnar nerve entrapment, also known as cubital tunnel syndrome, which occurs at the elbow. The ulnar nerve runs posterior to the medial epicondyle, then enters a groove between these two muscles.

The entrapment often results from compression due to repetitive elbow flexion or prolonged positioning, such as resting the elbow on a hard surface. As the ulnar nerve is relatively superficial in this area, it is susceptible to injury or compression, which can lead to symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hand.

This anatomical pathway is critical in diagnosing conditions associated with ulnar nerve dysfunction, and understanding where the nerve is prone to entrapment can guide both physical examination and treatment approaches.