❓ why

Why does hitting your funny bone hurt so much?

human bodyanatomy

Quick Answer

The 'funny bone' is not a bone but the ulnar nerve, which runs unprotected close to the skin at the elbow.

The Full Story

The ulnar nerve travels from the neck to the hand, passing through a groove behind the elbow called the cubital tunnel. At that point, it is covered only by skin and a little fat, not by muscle or bone. A knock compresses the nerve directly, sending a jolt of tingling pain down the forearm into the ring and little fingers. The name is likely a pun on the humerus, the upper-arm bone.

Key Facts

1.The ulnar nerve controls many of the small muscles of the hand.
2.Long-term pressure on the nerve can cause cubital tunnel syndrome.
3.The tingling usually fades within seconds to minutes.

YouTube Angle

Suggested video title for this topic:

"Your Funny Bone Isn't a Bone"