Stinger Types

Stinger Types

Most classification systems are based on the duration of motor weakness. Most grading systems involve a three tiered classification; Grade I, Grade II, and Grade III. Grade I injuries are the most common brachial plexus injuries with a transient loss of motor and nerve function, lasting from minutes to hours completely resolving within two weeks. This may be due to edema surrounding the nerve or a demyelination of the axon itself. There is a complete return to strength within two to three weeks following injury, that can be verified with EMG.

Grade II injuries exhibit motor weakness that will last for longer than two weeks. These individuals will eventually show complete clinical recovery. The recovery appears to come in two stages. There is an 80 to 90% return of strength in six weeks, with full strength returning in 6 months. EMG at three weeks post-injury may reveal classic evidence of muscle denervation with decreased motor unit potentials. After complete clinical recovery there may still be some deficits noted with EMG.

Grade III injuries are the rarest. The athlete will continue to exhibit symptoms for more than one year post-injury. These symptoms can include motor and sensory loss. An EMG of a suspected Grade III can show muscle denervation and three weeks and again at 3 months with out evidence of recovery. In some occasions, Grade III Brachial Plexus Nerve Injuries may necessitate surgical intervention.

The worst possible injury would involve a nerve root avulsion. Horner’s Syndrome is an example of this type of injury. The classic signs are ptosis, miosis, and anhidrosis. Ptosis reefers to a drooping eye lid on the affected side. Miosis is a constricted pupil on the affected side. Anhidrosis refers to a lack of sweat on the affected side. This syndrome results in a disruption of the sympathetic fibers at the nerve root level. The most commonly affected level is C7. This is a medical emergency and needs to be recognized and treated as such.

Continue on to Management of Stingers

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Please consult your personal physician for more detailed information

concerning specific injuries or illnesses.

Last Update for AthleticAdvisor.com: 06/04/2006 12:01:52 PM