I Hit My Funny Bone and It Still Hurts
What's and then funny near the funny bone? Actually, nothing. This is what you rapidly conclude if you accidentally hit merely the right spot on your elbow. Suddenly, a shocking, tingling pain shoots correct downwards your elbow, into your hand.
It isn't even a bone you've hitting. Information technology's actually a nerve. Specifically, the ulnar nervus. This nerve, 1 of the iii primary nerves in the arm, runs from the neck expanse and extends to the paw. The ulnar nerve innervates muscles of the forearm, manus and two fingers (the ring and pinky fingers). It is believed to have been named the "funny bone," considering the nervus corresponds to the humerus os (which sounds like humorous, as in funny). It is besides speculated that the term comes from the "funny" feeling of hitting it.
How tin a gentle tap cause such a severe reaction? At its most vulnerable spot, the ulnar nerve passes through a channel called the cubital tunnel. It is there that protection is express to only a thin blanket of skin and minimal fatty.
Typically, when you hit the ulnar nervus, you requite information technology 30 seconds, shake your arm around and that fleetingly pain goes away. But, what happens when information technology's more than a temporary feeling? Prolonged hurting, numbness or tingling can be caused past an injury or overuse. In rare incidents, peradventure a tumor. It is the result of nerve irritation, inflammation or ulnar nerve entrapment.
What is ulnar nerve entrapment?
Ulnar nerve entrapment ensues when the nervus is compressed or pinched. Although it tin can occur in the forearm or hand, the near common site of ulnar nerve entrapment is at or almost the elbow, specially in the region of the cubital tunnel. When compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow occurs, it is called cubital tunnel syndrome. The cubital tunnel is the second nigh mutual location of nerve entrapment in the body (the showtime virtually common is in the carpal tunnel, located in the wrist).
Some factors put people at greater risk for developing ulnar nerve entrapment. These include:
- Arthritis or bone spurs of the elbow
- A prior elbow fracture or dislocation
- Repetitive or prolonged stress acquired by activities requiring a bent or flexed elbow
Symptoms of ulnar nerve entrapment include:
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- Pain (or called-for awareness) in the elbow, palm or ring/pinkie finger
- Weakness (especially in the pinky finger and in gripping with the hand) or tenderness in the manus
- Tingling, numbness, decreased sensation in the palm or ring/pinkie finger
- Sensitivity to cold
- Tenderness in the elbow joint
- Hook-similar appearance of the mitt and wrist
How do yous treat ulnar nerve entrapment?
There are a variety of nonsurgical treatments that can convalesce the hurting and potential damage acquired past ulnar nerve entrapment. These include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen, aspirin and other over-the-counter pain relievers
- Occupational or physical therapy
- A splint or elbow brace for cubital tunnel syndrome
For cases in which these methods take not improved the condition, surgery may be recommended. Additional factors indicating surgery include:
- Astringent compression of the ulnar nerve
- Muscle weakness
- Damage that has resulted from nerve pinch
Ulnar nerve decompression surgery has been shown to be constructive in a majority of patients. In add-on to providing pain relief, this surgery can foreclose farther damage or deterioration, which is necessary to avert farther hand weakness and impaired function. Among its benefits are as well simplicity and safety.
At Neurosurgical Assembly of New Jersey, we are experts in performing ulnar nervus decompression . We can evaluate your individual ulnar nervus condition and review the various available treatments and recommendations. Contact us today for more information.
Source: https://neurosurgerycnj.com/the-funny-bone-aka-the-ulnar-nerve-is-no-laughing-matter/