ABSTRACT
Direct trauma in athletes can lead to neurological injuries related to the head and cervical spine. Common neurological presentations are concussions, cervical nerve pinch syndrome or ‘stingers’ as well as other less common injuries such as fractures and dislocations, herniated cervical discs with radiculopathy and transient quadriplegia associated with spinal stenosis. Debate exists over the incidence and long-term risks of repeated neurological insults to the central and peripheral nervous system. Universal guidelines for evaluation of these injuries and return to play criteria are lacking. This chapter will review the clinical presentations, management and return to play criteria for the neurological presentations of concussions and stingers, as well as cervical sprains and fractures in the athlete.
