shoulder STINGER / BURNER
DEFINITION:
- Also known as “nerve pinch injury” and “transient brachial plexopathy”.
- A minor nerve injury involving the brachial plexus. (See illustration).
MECHANISM OF INJURY / HOW IT OCCURS:
- Usually seen in high contact sports such as football, rugby and wrestling.
- A result of either the head and neck being forced toward the shoulder or forced away from the shoulder causing compression or stretching of a nerve respectively.
SYMPTOMS:
- Individuals will experience a sharp shooting pain down the arm with subsequent numbness and weakness.
- Symptoms usually resolve in minutes.
DIANOSIS:
- Physical examination assessing sensory deficit or weakness.
- Plain x-rays may be indicated to rule out cervical spine or shoulder injury.
- If symptoms persist further evaluation with a Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) study to detect the possibility cervical spine injury.
TREATMENT/REHABILITATION
- Cervical spine precautions if suspect spinal cord injury.
- Rest and ice.
- Anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for residual minor symptoms.
- Prevention with appropriate athletic equipment specifically limiting forceful posturing of the head and neck. As seen in the pads worn by football linemen.