Burners and Stingers

Often the result of impact sports and t-bone car accidents, burners and stingers are typically the result of a lateral whiplash where the brachial plexus (a collection of nerves from the neck that congregate around the lower, outer neck) is injured. Pain is very sharp and usually short lasting. Stretching of nerve structures from the injury is the main cause of the injury and associated weakness tends to last for as much as a month following the injury. The injury is named for the "stinging" or "burning" pain that radiates (spreads) from the shoulder to the hand. This can feel like an electric shock or "lightening bolt" down the arm, and may be accompanied by a warm sensation.

Although the symptoms tend to resolve themselves fairly quickly with this injury, the likelihood of persistent complications increases. It is important for the patient to rehabilitate the injured tissues correctly so as not to experience structural complications in the future. Athletes subject to burners and stingers are most likely to re-experience them, but they can reduce the likelihood of injury with strict compliance to care and strengthening techniques.