The real name of the "funny bone" is the ulnar nerve. It's not actually a bone at all, but a nerve located on the inside of your elbow. This nerve transmits sensations to your ring and little fingers. The name "funny bone" likely comes from the peculiar tingling or shocking sensation experienced when it's struck.
Understanding the Ulnar Nerve
- The ulnar nerve is one of three main nerves in your arm, playing a crucial role in providing sensation and motor function to parts of your hand.
- It runs along the inner elbow, close to the surface of the skin, making it vulnerable to accidental impact.
- When struck, the nerve is compressed against the underlying humerus (the main bone of the upper arm), resulting in a brief, sharp pain followed by a tingling or numb feeling radiating down the forearm and into the little and ring fingers.
Why the Misnomer?
Several theories explain why it's called the "funny bone":
- The "funny" feeling: The unusual sensation experienced when hitting this nerve is described as "funny" or strange. This is the most prevalent explanation.
- A pun: Some suggest the name is a pun, playing on the similarity between the words "humerus" (the upper arm bone) and "funny bone."
Various sources, such as New England Baptist Hospital, Houston Methodist, WebMD, Nemours KidsHealth, and The Hand Society all confirm that the “funny bone” is actually the ulnar nerve.
