📣 For more lifestyle news, click here to join our WhatsApp Channel and also follow us on Instagram
© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd
Tags:
Journalism of Courage
Have you experienced a strange, tingling, and jolting pain when hit on the funny bone on your elbows? However, this funny bone is not a bone, but a nerve called the ulnar nerve that runs near the surface of the elbow.
As part of our Know Your Body series, we decided to explore more about this sudden, sharp, tingling sensation that radiates down the forearm and into the little finger and ring finger when we get hurt on that spot.
“Some people describe it as feeling like pins and needles or a brief shock-like sensation. Despite its name, hitting the ‘funny bone’ is anything but funny, and the discomfort can be intense for a brief moment,” said S C Sharma, Naturopath, Ghaziabad.
The ulnar nerve travels from the arm and enters the forearm at the back of the elbow, between two bony prominences which can be easily felt.
“These bony prominences are known as medial epicondyle (a part of humerus bone) and olecranon process, a part of the ulna bone. The ulnar nerve carries electrical impulses and hence if one accidentally gets hit on this nerve, an electric-shock-like sensation is felt, that can last for a few seconds,” said neurologist Dr Sudhir Kumar, Apollo Hospitals, Hyderabad.
According to Sharma, when the ulnar nerve is struck, it is compressed or irritated, causing tingling and a temporary loss of sensation in the affected area.
“In most cases, the sensation disappears quickly, usually within a few seconds to a minute. However, some individuals may experience persistent discomfort or mild pain in the elbow area for a short time afterward. It is important to know that hitting the funny bone is not harmful in the long run and does not cause permanent damage,” Sharma pointed out.
Dr Kumar also said there is no need to worry, as a mild accidental hit on the nerve does not lead to any permanent damage. The nerve irritation is temporary and should subside without medical intervention.
“However, if the sensation persists or you experience other symptoms such as weakness or persistent pain in the arm, it is advisable to see a doctor to rule out other causes,” urged Dr Sharma.
To prevent bumping your elbow, be aware of your surroundings and avoid bumping your elbow against hard surfaces.
“In addition, proper posture and ergonomic positioning can reduce the risk of accidental impact to the ulnar nerve. If you experience frequent or severe episodes of hitting your elbow or if you have any concerns about your arm’s nerve sensations, don’t hesitate to consult with a healthcare professional for a thorough evaluation and personalised advice,” said Sharma.
📣 For more lifestyle news, follow us on Instagram | Twitter | Facebook and don’t miss out on the latest updates!
