HomeOur TeamContact

It s anything but amusing when this body part gets hit funnybone

By Elizabeth Marshall
Published in General
February 02, 2024
2 min read
It s anything but amusing when this body part gets hit funnybone

It’s anything but amusing when this body part gets hit @ funnybone

Funny bone

We have all experienced that sudden, electric jolt of pain when we accidentally hit our funny bone. Despite its name, hitting the funny bone is anything but amusing. This sensitive nerve located in our elbow can cause excruciating pain and tingling in our arm and hand. So, what exactly is this funny bone, and why does it hurt so much when it gets hit?

The funny bone is not actually a bone at all. It is a nerve called the ulnar nerve, which runs near the surface of the skin along the inside of our elbow. The ulnar nerve is responsible for transmitting signals to the muscles of the forearm and hand, allowing us to move and feel sensations in these areas. When the funny bone is hit, the ulnar nerve gets compressed or irritated, leading to that familiar sensation of discomfort.

Illustration of the ulnar nerve

But why does hitting the funny bone result in such intense pain? Well, the ulnar nerve is not well-protected by surrounding tissue, making it vulnerable to direct impact. When we hit our elbow in just the right spot, such as when we accidentally bump it against a hard surface, the ulnar nerve gets pinched between the bone and the surface. This compression causes a momentary disruption in the nerve’s normal functioning, leading to pain, tingling, and even a temporary loss of sensation in the affected areas.

Although hitting the funny bone can be painful, the good news is that the discomfort is usually temporary and subsides on its own. However, in some cases, hitting the funny bone can result in more serious injuries. Severe impacts to the elbow can cause nerve damage, leading to prolonged symptoms such as chronic pain, weakness, or numbness in the arm and hand. If you experience persistent symptoms after hitting your funny bone, it is advisable to seek medical attention for a proper evaluation.

To avoid hitting the funny bone altogether, it is essential to be mindful of our surroundings. Taking precautions such as maintaining clear pathways, using proper lighting, and being cautious during physical activities can greatly reduce the likelihood of accidental bumps against hard surfaces. Additionally, strengthening the muscles around the elbow through regular exercise can provide some protection to the ulnar nerve.

So, the next time you accidentally hit your funny bone, remember that it is not a laughing matter. The pain and tingling you experience are due to the compression of the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inside of your elbow. Although hitting the funny bone can be momentarily excruciating, the discomfort usually subsides quickly. However, if you notice persistent symptoms or if the pain becomes severe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

Note: This article is based on research and does not provide medical advice. If you have specific concerns or questions, please consult with a qualified healthcare professional.


Tags

#General

Share

Previous Article
It s been around for millions of years but it s no more than a month old moon
Elizabeth Marshall

Elizabeth Marshall

Facts explorer

Related Posts

0 3 of all road accidents in canada involve a moose
February 02, 2024
1 min

Quick Links

Advertise with usAbout UsContact Us

Social Media