Stingers in Combat Sports: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery

A stinger, also known as a burner, is a nerve injury that affects the neck, shoulder, arm, hand, and upper back. It is common in contact sports such as MMA, Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ), wrestling, boxing, and rugby, but can also occur from falls or direct impacts to the head. The sudden force can cause nerve compression or overstretching, leading to sharp, radiating pain and weakness in the affected limb.

What Causes a Stinger?

A stinger occurs when the head is forcefully pushed sideways, backward, or downward, stretching or compressing the cervical nerve roots and the brachial plexus. The brachial plexus is a complex network of nerves that controls movement and sensation in the arm and hand. When these nerves are irritated, it results in the characteristic burning pain of a stinger.

This injury is frequently seen in combat sports due to:

  • Takedowns and throws in wrestling and BJJ
  • Strikes to the head in boxing and MMA
  • Impact against the mat or canvas during training or competition
  • High-force collisions in rugby and other contact sports
  • Rapid neck hyperextension or lateral flexion when resisting a choke or submission

Symptoms of a Stinger

If you experience a stinger, you may notice the following symptoms:

  • A sudden burning, electric shock sensation that radiates from the neck down the arm
  • Weakness in the shoulder, arm, or hand, making it difficult to lift or grip
  • Numbness or tingling (pins and needles) in the arm, forearm, or fingers
  • Temporary loss of coordination or muscle control in the affected limb
  • Reduced range of motion in the neck due to discomfort

Symptoms usually last for a few seconds to minutes but, in severe cases, can persist for days or even weeks.

How to Treat a Stinger

Immediate Management

  • Stop training or competing immediately if you experience a stinger, as continuing can worsen the injury
  • Apply ice to the neck and shoulder to reduce inflammation
  • Perform gentle neck stretches and mobility exercises once the pain subsides
  • Avoid excessive neck movements or contact sports until symptoms have fully resolved

Rehabilitation & Recovery

  • Soft tissue therapy such as sports massage or deep tissue work can relieve muscle tightness around the neck and shoulders
  • Strengthening exercises focusing on the neck, shoulders, and upper back help stabilise the cervical spine
  • Postural corrections to avoid excessive forward head positioning, which can increase nerve irritation
  • Manual therapy techniques such as joint mobilisation or myofascial release can help restore movement
  • Neuromuscular training to improve coordination and reduce the risk of re-injury

When to Seek Medical Attention

If you experience severe weakness, prolonged numbness, or recurrent stingers, it’s essential to consult a physiotherapist or sports medicine specialist. Persistent nerve irritation can indicate underlying cervical spine issues such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or chronic nerve compression, which may require further investigation.

Preventing Stingers in Combat Sports

To reduce the risk of stingers, combat athletes should focus on:

  • Strengthening the neck and shoulders to absorb impact more effectively
  • Improving posture to reduce strain on the cervical spine
  • Practising controlled takedown techniques to minimise sudden neck hyperextension
  • Wearing appropriate protective gear such as padded headgear in sparring sessions
  • Incorporating flexibility and mobility drills into training to maintain full range of motion

Stingers are a common but preventable injury in combat sports and high-impact activities. While a single episode may not be serious, recurrent nerve trauma can lead to long-term dysfunction. By strengthening the neck, shoulders, and upper back, improving posture, and using proper technique, you can reduce your risk and stay in the fight longer.

If you’ve experienced a stinger and need sports therapy or rehabilitation, consider booking a treatment session to speed up recovery and prevent future injuries.