•  
  •  

Shoulder Injuries and Brachial Plexus Neuropathy

Shoulder injuries can affect the brachial plexus nerves, which are located along the inside of the upper arm from the armpit to the elbow. Contact sports injuries, falls, and motor vehicle crashes are the most common causes of brachial plexus injuries.

Symptoms of brachial plexus nerve injuries (neuropathy) include:

  • A sharp, burning pain that radiates down the affected arm.
  • Tingling.
  • Numbness.
  • A temporary loss of feeling.
  • Weakness.
  • Paralysis.

The terms "burners" or "stingers" are used for short-term brachial plexus symptoms. Home treatment measures will help relieve these symptoms. Home treatment includes pain medicines, rest, a shoulder splint, and gentle stretching exercises.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer David Messenger, MD
Last Revised August 23, 2011

Last Revised: August 23, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: William H. Blahd, Jr., MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine & David Messenger, MD

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.

To learn more visit Healthwise.org

© 1995-2012 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.