Why does it hurt so much when you bump your funny bone?

Dear Meghan:

The pain you feel when you bump your funny bone (its real name is humerus) isn't caused by a bone. It is caused by a nerve. Here's how it works:

The humerus (upper arm) and ulna (forearm) bones join together at your elbow. A nerve called the ulnar nerve is wedged between these bones. This nerve is very close to the skin by your elbow. When you bump your elbow, the ulnar nerve gets squashed against the humerus and ulna bones and ... OUCH! It doesn't feel very funny, does it?

Don't feel bad about your funny bone, though. The ulnar nerve does more than just feel pain. It also helps you bend your hand and move your fingers.