The prolonged burner syndrome

Over the course of a single football season, six players evaluated by the medical staff had burners that dis played a prolonged neurologic recovery. These players were examined and subsequently evaluated with iso kinetic testing and electrodiagnostic studies to eluci date better the short-term natural history of the pro longed burner syndrome. Evidence of muscular weak ness at 72 hours postinjury best correlated with positive electrodiagnostic findings. No correlation was found between the initial physical examination findings and the results of electrodiagnostic testing. Isokinetic strength evaluation demonstrated many relative strength differences that were difficult to discern with manual muscle testing. The return of a player to athletic competition following this injury should largely be based on the clinical examination.