Have you ever banged against something with the inner part of your elbow and felt that electric “zing” down into your little finger? If so, you’ve discovered your funny bone, also known as your ulnar nerve.
It’s not a bone and it’s not really very funny. But the ulnar nerve is a part of your arm that you should know about. The ulnar nerve is cousin to the median nerve, which is famous for being the “carpal tunnel nerve.” When something creates pressure or tension in either nerve you will feel numbness, tingling or other strange sensations in your hand. Continued pressure can lead to weakness in vital hand and wrist muscles.
A common way to get into trouble with these nerves is by habitually resting or pressing certain areas of the hand or arm against a surface. The heel of the hand and that inner part of the elbow, which we call the funny bone, are areas where the nerves are most at risk related to pressure.
Problem habits include: pivoting on the heel of the hand while using a computer keyboard or mouse; resting on an armrest or desk surface with your arm raised slightly up and out to your side such that the funny bone is pressed against the surface; and improperly using your hand as an impact tool as in banging on a stapler or other object.
Repetitive or prolonged angling of the wrist and hand during computer use and other activities can also lead to nerve problems. Poor posture and improper neck position can also affect the nerves, which pass through the neck on their way to the arms and hands.
The good news: You can help prevent problems with the ulnar and median nerves simply by following recommendations you’ve probably heard before:
1. When working at the computer, use a “float” technique and keep the wrists straight.
2. Keep your monitor or reading material directly in front of you and at a height and angle that is easy to see without bending your head up or down.
3. Use good posture.
4. Change positions throughout the day, and take periodic breaks from repetitive or stationary tasks.
5. Use the correct tool for the job (the hand does not make a good hammer).
6. Get good nutrition, exercise and rest; and use good self-care to help your body withstand the everyday stresses placed upon it.
These healthy habits can help you keep the not-so-funny bone and its carpal tunnel cousin fit and functioning well.
Nancy M. Lowe is a certified ergonomist, registered physical therapist and certified hand therapist. She has prevented and treated pain and injuries in the San Francisco Bay Area for more than 20 years. Contact her at [email protected].
