Burners and Stingers

Burners and stingers, often encountered in contact or collision sports, are injuries that impact the nerves in the neck and shoulder region. These injuries, named for the stinging or burning pain that radiates from the shoulder to the hand, are characterized by a temporary electric shock or lightning bolt-like sensation down the arm. Despite the intensity of these symptoms, burners and stingers are typically transient, and most individuals experience a quick resolution of discomfort.

Anatomy of Nerve Injuries:

Nerves, akin to electrical cables transmitting messages between the brain and muscles, travel through the spinal canal. The brachial plexus, a network of intertwined nerves responsible for controlling movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand, is particularly vulnerable to injury. Burners and stingers occur when the head is forcefully pushed sideways and down, resulting in the bending of the neck and compression of surrounding nerves.

Causes and Risk Factors:

These injuries commonly transpire in contact sports, with actions like wrestling takedowns and football tackles posing a higher risk. Athletes engaging in American football, particularly defensive players and offensive linemen, are most susceptible. Additionally, individuals with a smaller spinal canal, either congenitally or due to degeneration (spinal stenosis), face an elevated risk of experiencing burners or stingers.

Symptoms:

Burners and stingers typically affect one arm and exhibit symptoms such as a burning or electric shock sensation, arm numbness and weakness immediately after the injury, and a warm sensation. While the duration of symptoms is generally brief, ranging from seconds to minutes, some cases may extend to hours, days, or longer.

Diagnosis and Doctor Examination:

Diagnosis involves a discussion of symptoms and the circumstances leading to the injury. Imaging tests like X-rays, MRIs, and nerve studies are typically unnecessary. However, a more thorough examination is warranted if weakness persists for an extended period, neck pain is present, symptoms occur in both arms, or there is a history of recurrent burners or stingers.

Treatment:

Immediate treatment involves removing the athlete from further injury, and they should not return to sports until symptoms completely subside. The recovery period can vary from minutes to days. For prolonged symptoms, working with a trainer or therapist may be necessary to regain strength and motion. Individuals with recurrent stingers might be recommended protective padding around the neck, such as a neck roll or cowboy collar, to enhance stability during sports activities.

In summary, while burners and stingers can be alarming, especially in the world of sports, understanding their causes, symptoms, and appropriate management is crucial for a safe and effective recovery.