A stinger injury, also known as a burner, is a common nerve injury of the neck and shoulder seen in contact sports, especially football. It occurs when the tackler gets their shoulder forced one way while their head and neck go the other way, stretching the nerve bundle known as the brachial plexus, which runs from the neck into the shoulder and down the arm, briefly stunning the nerves. Symptoms of a stinger include numbness and tingling in the arm, burning pain, weakness in the arm, and stiffness in the neck. These symptoms can also be signs of a more serious injury, so it is important to seek medical attention if they persist. Fortunately, a stinger is usually a mild injury that comes and goes without much issue or lingering effects. Treatment for a stinger injury includes rest, ice, and taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen to manage pain. To prevent further stinger injuries, athletes can wear protective neck rolls or shoulder pads to protect the area in case of another hit.