Group of young American football players practicing tackles and defensive drills outside together on a sports field in the afternoon
A look at what a stinger or burner injury is and what they can do to the neck and shoulders. We will look at:
Contact sports, like:
This is a very common cervical injury that affects the neck and upper body. This is known as a stinger.
A stinger can also be called a burner and is an injury that happens when the head or neck gets hit to one side, which causes the shoulder to be pulled in the opposite direction.
Stingers/burners often happen at the high school level but can occur at all levels of play.
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A stinger is caused by stretching the brachial plexus nerves.
These peripheral nerves that come out of:
The brachial plexus nerves give the arms their strength and sensation.
When a sideways hit to the head or hit to the shoulder occurs, the nerves can become:
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This type of sideways collision causes immediate and intense pain, tingling or burning sensations that can run down the arm into the fingers.
Weakness in the affected arm or hand is common.
The weakness, numbness, and tingling sensations can last a few minutes or for a few weeks.
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Fortunately, most stinger injuries heal on their own with rest and relaxation of the neck muscles.
Athletes are placed on the disabled list until symptoms are gone and a doctor has cleared the athlete.
Players can return to sport once the pain is gone and theyโve regained:
Constant or recurring symptoms could indicate a more serious injury.
Cervical x-rays, a CT scan, or MRI could be used to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms.
Players who experience stinger symptoms should immediately report it to their coaches or team/personal physician.
Ignoring or playing through a stinger injury can lead to more severe injuries.
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Following a balanced diet along with healthy lifestyle habits can help promote optimal health and wellness.
People with neck pain realize how much their symptoms affect their ability to engage in everyday activities.
Dr. Alex Jimenez helps patients achieve neck pain relief through chiropractic care, an alternative treatment option that carefully corrects any spinal misalignments or subluxations.ย
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Injury, Trauma & Spinal Rehabilitation Specialist