Which nerve can be damaged by direct application of ice to an elbow injury?

The ulnar nerve is particularly vulnerable to injury from direct ice application on the elbow due to its anatomical location. The ulnar nerve runs superficially along the inner aspect of the elbow, specifically around the medial epicondyle of the humerus. This area is often referred to as the "funny bone," and it's well-known that trauma or pressure on this nerve can lead to numbness, tingling, or pain in the arm and fingers, particularly along the ring and pinky fingers.

Applying ice directly to an injurious site can cause nerve compression due to swelling or can also lead to localized cold exposure that can impair nerve function. In this case, the ulnar nerve is more likely to be affected due to its proximity to the skin surface at the elbow. Therefore, when managing an elbow injury, care must be taken to avoid direct ice application over areas where major nerves are located, such as where the ulnar nerve passes, to prevent complications like neuropathy.