…..Answer: A major nerve running through the arm and hand.
The ulnar nerve begins near the neck, travels down the inside of the arm and passes behind the bony point on the inner side of the elbow.
At this point, the nerve sits close to the skin with very little protection. Bumping it can create a sudden tingling, burning or electric-shock sensation travelling into the forearm, little finger and part of the ring finger. This is what people commonly call hitting their funny bone.
The ulnar nerve also helps control several small muscles in the hand and provides feeling to part of the hand and fingers.
Persistent numbness, weakness or tingling following an arm or elbow injury should be medically assessed.
Tomorrow we explain what is happening inside the heart during a myocardial infarction.
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Acknowledgement
Data and information are fact-checked against various recognised sources, including the New Zealand Resuscitation Council, Health Navigator New Zealand, St John, and other recognised entities specialising in the specific subject content. It should be noted that there are variances in protocols, which are identified where necessary.