Stingers, transient quadriplegia, and cervical spinal stenosis: return to play criteria.

This article focuses on sports related spinal cord and nerve injuries, ranging from mild "stinger" syndrome to complete quadriplegia. Particular emphasis is placed on recommendations for return to competition after such injuries. Cervical spinal cord symptoms after a spine injury from contact sports require a more precise work up to detect cervical spinal stenosis than radiographic bone measurements alone can provide. Imaging technology such as MRI, contrast positive CT, and myelography more accurately identify true spinal stenosis and allow for safer return to play decisions.