Why is it called the funny bone?

The funny bone's name derives from the funny feeling that occurs when the ulnar nerve is hit. This nerve runs from the ring and pinkie fingers to the elbow. The ulnar nerve communicates with the brain about what the fourth and fifth fingers are experiencing.

The ulnar nerve is not protected by muscle or bone as it runs through the elbow. The feeling associated with hitting the funny bone is often described as numbness, tingling and pain. These feelings can travel along where the ulnar nerve lies, up the arm and into the hand, the ring finger and the pinkie finger.