Arm · Nerve
Ulnar Nerve
The ulnar nerve runs down the arm to the little and ring fingers. It passes behind the elbow, where knocking it gives the tingling "funny bone" sensation.
What it is
The ulnar nerve is a major nerve of the arm, running from the neck region to the hand, close to the surface behind the elbow.
Where it runs
Down the inner arm, behind the bony bump of the elbow, into the little-finger side of the hand.
What it does
Controls many small muscles of the hand (important for grip and fine movements) and carries sensation from the little finger and half the ring finger.
When things go wrong
Common problems affecting the ulnar nerve
- Cubital tunnel syndrome (compression at the elbow)
- Ulnar nerve injury causing hand weakness
Education and reference only. This explains the anatomy in plain terms and is not a diagnosis. New weakness or numbness, facial drooping, or loss of bladder or bowel control can be an emergency — call 999.
Did you know?
An interesting fact
The "funny bone" is not a bone at all — it is the ulnar nerve being knocked where it runs close to the skin behind the elbow.
Answers
Ulnar Nerve: frequently asked questions
Why does hitting my elbow tingle?
The tingling comes from knocking the ulnar nerve where it lies close to the surface behind the elbow — the so-called "funny bone".
Related nerves
Explore arm nerves
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Nervous system
- Gray's Anatomy for Students
- TeachMeAnatomy — nervous system
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