Any vaccine is not without its side effects. One of the more common issues that arose involves soreness in the shoulder or upper arm post-shot. Most of those suffering soreness will see it disappear in a handful of days. However, others have suffered more severe side effects including lasting pain.
The flu shot alone results in approximately one to two million of those vaccinated experiencing significant shoulder pain and limited range of motion.
Common symptoms
Shoulder injuries related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) can occur within 48 hours of vaccination. It is caused by improper placement of the needle during vaccination. If the needle is injected too high on the arm or too deep into the arm, interior structures within the arm and shoulder are damaged, including damage to tendons, nerves, bursa and more.
Symptoms include:
- Intense shoulder pain and stiffness, including frozen shoulder
- Reduced mobility and weakness/altered sensation in the arm
- Reduced range of shoulder motion
- Rotator cuff tendonitis
- Bursitis
- Arthralgia
More severe outcomes from SIRVA can lead to chronic or sometimes permanent arm and shoulder injuries lasting more than six months.
Significant challenges
Diagnosing SIRVA presents significant challenges because shoulder pain can be challenging, as shoulder pain is a common symptom shared by various medical conditions. What makes SIRVA different from other shoulder injuries is its association with vaccination. In order to have a valid claim for SIRVA, the pain must have started within 48 hours of vaccination.
It is important to speak to an attorney promptly as soon as you realize you are experiencing shoulder pain after vaccination, as there is a limited time to bring a claim. Contact Downing, Allison & Jorgenson National Vaccine Injury Lawyers: vaccine injuries are all we do, and we are here to help.