Cervical Intervertebral Disc Degeneration and Low Cervical Extension Independently Associated With a History of Stinger Syndrome.

Background: Stinger syndrome frequently occurs in athletes who compete in collision sports. Sharp pain and impairment of neck motion are major symptoms. Cervical intervertebral disc degeneration (CIDD) is also frequently observed in those who compete in collision sports.

Purpose/Hypothesis: To investigate whether CIDD and neck functionality are related to a history of stinger syndrome. The hypothesis was that a significant relationship exists between CIDD and neck motion and a history of stinger syndrome in Japanese collegiate football players.

Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods: A total of 49 male Japanese collegiate football players (mean age, 20.0 ± 1.1 years; mean athletic experience, 3.8 ± 2.3 years; mean height, 172.3 ± 4.8 cm; mean weight, 83.1 ± 12.2 kg) were subdivided into athletes with stinger syndrome (stinger group) and those without (control group). Stinger syndrome was confirmed based on a questionnaire and interview. CIDD was assessed by using T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Range of motion (ROM) and isometric muscle strength were measured for neck function testing.

Results: Thirty-nine percent (19/49) of athletes had at least 1 episode of stinger syndrome. The prevalence of CIDD was significantly higher in the stinger group (68%) than in the control group (30%) ( P < .01). A statistically significant difference in cervical extension ROM was found between the stinger group (50.9° ± 11.1°) and the control group (60.2° ± 11.4°) ( P < .01). Logistic regression analysis showed that CIDD and low cervical extension were independently associated with a history of stinger syndrome.

Conclusion: Study results suggest that stinger syndrome is associated with CIDD and low cervical extension in collegiate football players.