Well, I didn't have the ulnar surgery, but I had carpal tunnel surgery and before surgery, my hand was useless -- and I was an Optician.

I'd had previous spine surgeries, and I sure didn't want any more surgery -- but my doc told me that if I did NOT have it done then, I could expect permanent nerve damage. I did NOT want to risk that, so we went ahead.

The surgery was a complete success, and after some therapy the hand was back to working again. If I were you, I'd go ahead and have it done before this becomes a permanent condition --- if it hasn't already. They can give you some "exercises" for your arm/hand after surgery to help regain use. Plus I also had "hot wax" treatments -- don't know what good it did, but it sure felt good. LOL

I wish you the very best -- keep us posted. Hugs, Lee