It is normal to experience temporary shoulder pain after getting a vaccination. However, when this pain lasts longer than a few days, it is always a cause for concern. When this occurs, it is known as Shoulder Injury-Related to Vaccine Administration, or known as SIRVA. This is a prevalent condition, but there are some things that people do not know about it. There are also a lot of misconceptions about this condition.
Improper Needle Placement is the Leading Cause of SIRVA
Mark Sadaka is a vaccine attorney. He represents patients who suffer from SIRVA. He stated that the top cause of SIRVA is the needle misplacement. If the vaccine is injected too high, then it can affect the bursa. The bursa is a sac that is filled with fluid. When the bursa is inflamed, it is known as bursitis. This not only causes pain, but it can also affect range of motion.
The pain has a tendency to get worse over time. The range of motion may also continue to diminish.
SIRVA Injuries are Extremely Common
Mark stated that many people believe that SIRVA is a rare condition. However, it is extremely common. The United States Court of Federal Claims has paid millions of dollars to patients who have suffered from SIRVA.
It Is Possible to Experience Serious Side Effects
It is normal to experience mild side effects after you get vaccinated. In fact, many physicians will tell their patients that they can expect some side effects. Some of the side effects include inflammation, swelling, redness and tenderness. Most of the side effects are short-lived and typically go away on their own.
However, patients who suffer serious side effects need to be treated by a physician. Difficulty sleeping, stabbing pain, problems completing activities of daily living and reduced range of motion are some of the potential side effects that require medical attention.
Side Effects can Last a Long Time
Mark stated that many people do not believe that vaccines can cause lasting damage to the shoulder. Mild side effects do not require any medical treatment. However, pain that starts 0 to 48 hours after the injection and continues to get worse needs to be treated by a physician.
Faulty Administration can Cause Lasting Shoulder Injuries
Sharp stabbing pains, tendinitis, bursitis and torn rotator cuff are some of the symptoms of a shoulder injury. Frozen shoulder is a problem that causes pain and stiffness in the shoulder joint. It occurs when the connective tissue in the joint tightens.
Vaccines can also cause damage to the nerves in the shoulder. Brachial neuritis is a condition that causes inflammation around the joint.
Treatments are Available
There are many types of treatments available. The nature of the injury is one of the things that will determine the type of treatment that is necessary. Medication can be used to manage the pain and reduce the inflammation. The physician may also recommend therapy. Steroid injections are another example of a treatment that can be used.
Surgery may be recommended in some cases. However, this is typically a last resort. The key to getting your condition successfully treated is to get to the doctor as soon as possible.
Learn more about Shoulder Injuries Related to Vaccination Administration.