Are 'Stingers' More Than Just a Sports Injury? Understanding Brachial Plexus Issues in Active Kids

Sports play a significant role in a child’s physical and emotional development. From football to gymnastics, participating in physical activity helps kids build strength, discipline, and social skills. However, it also comes with the risk of injuries. One such injury, often overlooked but important, is the "stinger" or "burner."

Though commonly seen in young athletes, stingers may indicate more serious issues involving the brachial plexus, a major nerve network that controls movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. 

A stinger is a sudden, sharp, burning pain that runs from the neck or shoulder down the arm. It usually happens after a direct blow or a sudden stretch of the neck and shoulder area. The pain is often described as electric or shock-like and is usually short-lived, lasting seconds to a few minutes.

Stingers are caused by an injury to the brachial plexus, the group of nerves that exit the spinal cord in the neck and travel down the arm. When these nerves are compressed or stretched, it disrupts the signal to the arm, causing pain, numbness, or weakness.

The brachial plexus is a network of nerves that originates from the cervical spine (C5–T1). These nerves control both muscle movement and sensation in the shoulder, arm, and hand. Injuries to this area can result in varying degrees of motor and sensory problems.

Most stingers are temporary and resolve without treatment. However, they should not be ignored, especially in children. Repeated stingers or longer-lasting symptoms may suggest more serious nerve injuries or structural problems in the cervical spine.

Signs that a stinger might be more than just a minor injury include:

If your child experiences these signs, medical evaluation is necessary.

While stingers are common in contact sports, they can occur in any situation involving sudden impact or overextension of the neck and shoulder. Some common causes include:

Children with weaker neck muscles or poor posture may be more prone to this type of injury.

Children may have difficulty describing nerve-related pain. As a parent or coach, it's important to look out for these signs:

If a child consistently complains of arm discomfort after sports activities, it may be a signal that something more than a minor injury is going on.

For first-time and mild cases, a pediatrician or sports medicine doctor may rely on a physical exam and history. If symptoms are recurring or severe, additional tests might be needed, such as:

These tests help confirm whether the injury is limited to the brachial plexus or if there are underlying problems such as herniated discs or spinal cord involvement.

Most stingers heal on their own with rest and basic care. Treatment usually includes:

For recurring stingers or more serious injuries, physical therapy may be recommended. Therapy focuses on strengthening the neck, shoulders, and upper back to prevent further injuries.

In rare cases, surgery may be considered if there is ongoing nerve compression or structural damage.

Prevention starts with awareness and preparation. Parents, coaches, and children can take the following steps:

Seek prompt medical evaluation if your child:

Early evaluation ensures that more serious conditions, such as spinal cord injuries or brachial plexus disorders, are not overlooked.

Stingers may appear to be harmless sports injuries, but in children, they warrant closer attention. While most are mild and temporary, repeated or severe stingers can signal underlying problems with the brachial plexus or spine.

Understanding the signs, causes, and preventive measures can help parents and coaches respond quickly and appropriately. With the right care, most children recover fully and can return to sports safely.