In simple words, it is because of compression of the ulnar nerve. When a specific part of the elbow suddenly collides with something, there is a feeling of an electric shock in the arm. It is sometimes both annoying and painful. Do you know why this part of the elbow is so unique? And why is this shock so strong? This part is called "Funny Bone." It is the ulnar nerve. These nerves run from the neck to the arm. They strengthen many of the muscles in the hands and elbows. It ends in the form of two branches; the little finger of the hand and the third finger of the hand. Between the neck and the arms, the big part of the ulnar nerve is preserved, the same as any other muscle in the body. But when these nerves pass through the elbow, they pass through a channel called the Cubital Tunnel; it is only protected by skin and fat.
When this funny bone collides with something, It hits that nerve bone and gets suppressed, which results in a strong sense of pain, numbness, and tingling. These feelings of pain, numbness, and tingling lead to the areas where these nerves are functioning. (From the elbow to the fingers of the hands.) Everyone knows it feels like a disturbing electric shock when this part of the elbow hits the spot.
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| Picture by: kleisertherapy |
But imagine if this location was always shocking as if someone was constantly hitting their elbow on something. It's called "Cubicular Tunnel Syndrome." The ulnar nerve is suppressed or shrunk while traveling along the elbow. It usually occurs because of using the arm as a pillow, which causes feelings like an elbow collision's shock, numbness, discomfort, and tingling. But their duration is a little longer.
Over time, that nerve becomes numb. It also weakens the elbow and arm muscles, while the position of the third and little fingers of the hand is as if you were twisting those two fingers, also known as the Ulnar Claw. It is usually treated by adjusting and supporting the elbow position. Hand therapy is also effective. Surgery is needed for severe cases to give the nerves more space and reduce pressure.
Tags: Amazing Facts, Elbow Shock. Elbow Collisions, Ulnar Nerve, Ulnar Claw, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome