Best Practice Case Studies-Stingers

Pdf Summary

Stingers, also known as burners, are common nerve injuries in contact sports like American football and rugby, but they can also occur in wrestling, hockey, basketball, and boxing. These injuries result from direct contact or stretching of the nerves as they exit the neck, causing symptoms such as intense burning pain, weakness, and numbness in one arm. Athletes may often leave the playing area supporting the injured arm.<br /><br />Evaluation by a sports medicine physician involves questions about the injury and a comprehensive neurologic examination, focusing on sensation, strength, and reflexes. A distinguishing factor is that stinger symptoms are limited to one arm, as bilateral symptoms might indicate a more severe spinal injury. In cases where symptoms are alarming, immobilization of the neck and hospital referral for further evaluation may be necessary.<br /><br />Recovery monitoring involves regular checks of strength and motion range, with treatment typically consisting of protective measures like using a sling, pain management medications, and possibly a rehabilitation program with an athletic trainer or physical therapist.<br /><br />Preventative strategies emphasize using proper techniques in sports, especially in tackling, and exercises focusing on neck and core strength and balance. Consideration for protective padding is also advised. Return to play should only be considered when the athlete has regained full neck and arm function, with prolonged exclusion from play contemplated for those with a history of multiple stingers or ongoing neurological issues.<br /><br />The American Medical Society for Sports Medicine (AMSSM) is an organization with 2,500 sports medicine physicians focusing on education, research, and athlete care. They specialize in non-surgical sports medicine and serve a wide range of athletes across various sports levels.

Meta Tag

Edition 2nd Edition

Related Case 2nd Edition, CASE 52

Topic Spine

Keywords

2nd Edition, CASE 52

2nd Edition

Spine

stingers

nerve injuries

contact sports

American football

neurologic examination

sports medicine

preventative strategies

rehabilitation

protective padding

AMSSM