Expert: Timothy A. Peck, DC - 2/5/2012

Question
I was playing soccer about 10 days ago and someone took a shot and the ball ricochet off my elbow and sent waves of pain down to my hand immediately. It wasn't the "funny bone" feeling it made my hand go numb and my range of motion was restricted. It's been 10 days and the pain is still intense but only when touched or hit on something. The slightest touch causes pain, and range of motion and sensitivity varies. Today I was getting something out my car and my elbow clipped my seat and I almost threw up from the pain. I thought it might be the ulcer nerve. the pain is concentrated at the tip of the small bone on the inside of my elbow. Not sure if I need an X-ray or an MRI or any at all. There's no swelling or discoloration but seem to have a small knot at the tip of the bone.

Thank you for your help.

Answer
It sounds like a contusion to the ulnar nerve which is the "funny bone", running along the inside of the elbow to the ring and little finger. It may take a several  weeks to resolve. Your physician may prescribe anti inflammatory medicine to speed it along. I think you should have an  xray for good measure at this point.