Acute cervical spine injuries in the adult competitive athlete: Football injuries (burners)

Damage to the spine accounts for some 40% of the estimated 1 million injuries suffered by American football players each year, and neck injuries are among the most devastating. Though protective equipment has improved over the years, it is still no substitute for proper blocking and tackling techniques and adequate conditioning. One of the more common injuries suffered by football players, particularly interior Lineman, is the stinger or burner, a neck injury which produces temporary paralysis and searing, lancinating pain throughout one arm. Burners can be prevented through the use of properly fitted shoulder pads.