• Burning or stinging pain
• Electric-shock sensation down one arm
• Tingling or pins and needles
• Arm weakness
• Temporary numbness
• Pain from the neck or shoulder into the hand
• Heavy or “dead arm” feeling

• Sudden burning pain from the neck into the arm
• Electric shock or lightning-bolt sensation
• Pins and needles in the arm or fingers
• Arm feels weak, heavy, or numb
• Symptoms usually affect only one side
• Pain may disappear within minutes but weakness can last longer

• Football tackles
• Contact or collision sports
• Head forced away from the shoulder
• Neck compressed toward the affected side
• Direct blow to the shoulder
• Falls onto the head or shoulder
• Repeated neck and shoulder impacts

• Notice whether symptoms began immediately after contact
• Check whether burning or tingling travels down only one arm
• Compare grip and arm strength on both sides
• Check whether neck and shoulder movement is comfortable
• Do not continue testing if symptoms worsen
• Do not self-check the neck after major trauma

Educational only — not a medical diagnosis.

1. 1Stop playing immediately
2. 2Tell a coach, athletic trainer, or healthcare professional
3. 3Keep the neck in a comfortable position
4. 4Do not return while pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness remains
5. 5Apply ice if recommended
6. 6Seek evaluation for persistent or repeated symptoms

• Symptoms in both arms
• Severe or central neck pain
• Loss of balance or difficulty walking
• Persistent numbness or weakness
• Inability to move the arm
• Loss of consciousness
• Symptoms after major head or neck trauma
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of bladder or bowel control

• Most isolated stingers resolve quickly
• Do not return until symptoms are completely gone
• Restore full pain-free neck motion
• Regain normal and equal arm strength
• Strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles
• Improve tackling and contact technique
• Seek evaluation for repeated stingers
• Return to contact sports only after medical clearance