Burners and Stingers

“Burners” and “stingers” are terms used to describe a specific type of nerve injury that commonly occurs in contact sports, especially football, wrestling, and rugby. Here’s a breakdown of each:

Burners

– Definition: A “burner” refers to a sharp, burning pain or sensation that runs down one arm. This pain is often caused by the stretching or compression of the brachial plexus, a network of nerves that extends from the spinal cord in the neck down to the shoulder, arm, and hand.

Cause

Burners usually occur when the head and neck are forcefully pushed to one side while the opposite shoulder is simultaneously depressed. This movement stretches or compresses the nerves of the brachial plexus, leading to the burning sensation.

Symptoms

- Sudden, intense pain that radiates from the neck down into the arm.
- A sensation of burning or electric shock down the arm.
- Possible weakness or numbness in the arm or hand.
- Symptoms typically last from a few seconds to a few minutes, but in some cases, they can persist longer.

Stingers

– Definition: “Stinger” is another term used interchangeably with “burner.” Both refer to the same type of injury and symptoms, often related to nerve trauma in the neck or shoulder area.

Cause

The causes of stingers are the same as those for burners—usually involving forceful impact or abnormal movement of the neck and shoulder, leading to nerve stretching or compression.

Symptoms

Identical to burners, including sharp, burning pain down the arm, a feeling of electric shock, and possible temporary weakness or numbness in the affected arm.

Management and Prevention

– Immediate Care: Athletes who experience a burner or stinger should stop playing immediately and be evaluated by a healthcare professional. Rest is usually recommended, along with ice to reduce inflammation. In some cases, physical therapy may be necessary.

– Prevention: Strengthening the muscles around the neck and shoulders, improving technique in contact sports, and using proper protective gear can help reduce the risk of burners and stingers.

Long-term Concerns

– While most burners and stingers resolve quickly, repeated injuries can lead to chronic issues such as prolonged pain, weakness, or even permanent nerve damage if not properly managed. It is important to monitor symptoms and ensure full recovery before returning to play.

If an athlete experiences frequent burners or stingers, it’s crucial to get a thorough medical evaluation to prevent long-term damage and to develop a plan to protect the neck and shoulder area from future injuries.

ΕΠΙΚΟΙΝΩΝΗΣΤΕ ΜΕ ΤΟ ΓΙΑΤΡΟ

ΚΛΕΙΣΕ ΤΟ ΡΑΝΤΕΒΟΥ ΣΟΥ