C.W.
I've had ulnar neuropathy. Which is ulnar nerve damage or pain. It is the major nerves that go over your elbow and affect your pinkie and last 4th finger. I had inflammation and numbing/constant pain in those fingers I had it for a year. I'm not sure if this is what you are talking about. I injured my elbow when I had a fall and fell on my right hand/elbow on the concrete. It usually comes from an injury or repetitive movements. Have her do stretches every few hours. Use ice and heat and rest most importantly.
I use 800 mg of Ibuprofin (prescription), you can take more of the over the counter ibuprofin as well. I have found that has helped greatly for my pain. I also use ice and heat and Tylenol PM helped me get sleep. I had surgery on my elbow with the ulnar neuropathy pain. I saw major relief after the surgery. Still was tender and I needed therapy after wards. I have other issues as well, carpal tunnel and DeQuervain's. It is all in my right hand.
Has she had any of the nerve tests done? That would help. If she has hand or arm pain, see Dr. Toledo. He is an Orthopedic Surgeon, who specializes in the hand, elbow and shoulders. I can give you more info on him. He is awesome and has done all my surgeries and came highly recommended to me. I tried all the alternative medicines and didn't see any relief except for temporary relief and I wanted permanent relief. The only trouble I have now is when I rest my elbow too long on chair or table and it hurts only around my elbow. The pain doesn't travel anymore. You can try an elbow pad and that would help if it is her elbow,especially at night. There are braces that can be pain to help your hands/wrist. If you need more info, please contact me and we can talk more. Hope she gets better.