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Last year we learned a new acronym from our readers: SIRVA. It stands for Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration.
This is the first message we received:
“It has been seven weeks since I had my annual flu shot, and my arm is still sore at the injection site.
I do not think I have a Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) from having the vaccine injected into the wrong area.
Nonetheless, the shoulder feels like I received the shot two days ago.
There appears to be anecdotal information that the new quad vaccine has left many recipients with sore arms for an extended period. Have you read any reports that this sore arm issue is widespread this year?
Is Shoulder Pain After a Flu Shot Something New?
At first we were surprised by this case report. In 40 years of reporting about adverse drug reactions we had never run into a report of SIRVA before. That may because we just never asked the question before. But starting last fall, we began hearing from a lot of other people who also reported trouble with sore arms after flu shot vaccinations last year.
In many cases, the presumption was that the pain, weakness and limited range of shoulder motion were due to injury to the tendons, ligaments or bursa of the shoulder from the injection itself. Tendon or ligament-related pain can be incredibility debilitating and can last a very long time.
Flu Shot Stories:
One reader wrote:
It has been almost one year since I had a flu shot at my local drugstore. I am unable to raise my left arm and any movement causes severe pain.
I wake up at night when I move in bed and am not guarding my arm. The pain is excruciating. I first thought it was tendinitis, but then realized this had been going on since right after I got the flu shot last year.
We have now gotten the first case report from this year’s flu season, though the vaccination period is barely underway:
On August 10, 2015, I got a flu shot at CVS for a new job. Initially I wanted to get it from my physician or the Occupational Health location where I got my TB shot, but neither had it in stock this early in the flu season. The pharmacist wiped the top of my shoulder with alcohol, then a little higher. When he injected, I saw him go in on the highest point of my deltoid. I felt pain with the injection.
Afterward, I asked why he injected so high. He said the vaccine needs to go into the deltoid. I think it needs to go into the meatiest part. That’s always been my experience and I’ve had many flu shots because I work in health care.
I felt pain driving home and by early evening I was taking a pain reliever. The pain was so severe I could not sleep on my left side (the arm that was injected).
Two days later I returned and told the pharmacist that he injured me and he needs to understand and document that. If it didn’t feel better, I was going to see my physician. After another week, I had to do just that. She referred me to an orthopedist to look into it further.
I am convinced this is a very real problem. There should be better protocols for anyone administering shots in the arm so they stay away from the top of the shoulder, especially the attachment point of the deltoid. This is incredibly painful, to the point of nausea. I also have poor range of motion and am unable to lift with that arm. It is a serious injury.
Education, awareness and compensation for the injured are all necessary. What more can we do to get the word out?”
Did You Know There is Compensation for Vaccine Injuries?
According to The Wall Street Journal (Aug. 24, 2015), compensation for SIRVA is on the rise. The cases are handled through vaccine court. Here is an overview of what the WSJ reported:
Since 2011, the government has paid about $18 million to 112 Sirva victims–more than half of those in the past year. Twenty cases are pending, and dozens are fielded by lawyers every month, a rise attributed to the growing number of immunizations and increased awareness of Sirva in part due to attorneys devoted to vaccine-related claims.
The money comes from a trust set up in 1988 under a program to shield vaccine manufacturers from liability. It is funded by a small surcharge on vaccines. Since 1988, some $3.2 billion has been paid for a range of injuries related to vaccinations, including arthritis, encephalitis, polio and even death, according to HRSA. The government says victims compensated represent just one of every one million inoculations.”
We’re not entirely convinced that all the shoulder injuries are because of poor injection technique. Some may also be related to the vaccine itself, but that remains uncertain. The FDA and public health officials are so enthusiastic about flu shots that they seem somewhat reluctant to investigate potential problems. It is easier to blame pharmacists and nurses for improper technique.
We certainly believe that anyone administering a flu shot should be adequately trained. Bad technique almost certainly has contributed to some of the problems that have been reported. But we also would like to see the FDA and the CDC investigate the possibility that the flu shot itself may be doing damage. What’s up with the new quad (four) shot vaccine anyway?
More Stories from Readers:
This came from C.O.L.
I had a flu shot last year. It was the first one ever and last one. I was injected high on the arm. That was the first mistake as I am a thin female (see CDC website).
Within an hour my arm was very painful. Everyone said it would be fine in a day or two. Five months later I am still dealing with it. With PT and home exercise its finally improving but I still cannot sleep on that side.
I have tried filling out the adverse effect form [FDA and CDC offer a place to report bad reactions] and every time I get to the fifth page and submit, it comes up an error. This is extremely frustrating. It would have been a lot easier to have gotten the flu!!!
Debbie shared:
“I started getting annual flu shots over 15 years ago when my parents first went into a retirement home. I had never had a problem until this year. I received my shot last October and still experience considerable discomfort and ‘pinching’ over 5 months later. There has been very minimal improvement. I had never heard of SIRVA before. I strongly believe that is what I have experienced.”
Sarah the nurse offers this:
I can’t believe how many people have the same complaint. I was curious what would come up on Google when I searched shoulder pain related to flu shot.
I never chose to get flu shots on my own. I didn’t believe in them. Since being accepted into a nursing program, it is a mandatory thing. I am so irate because this mandatory thing goes against my beliefs to begin with and then this happens! Shoulder pain that is limiting my mobility. My symptoms are a sore deltoid, limited motion at the shoulder joint and now what feels like tendonitis in my wrist.
Good thing I got this in my left arm since I’m right handed. Ugh! Something needs to be done to protect us in the medical field from these mandated flu shots. A strong immune system will likely protect us better than a shot.
H.I.S. from the UK shared this:
I received the flu vaccine in September 2014. I was given the jab while seated, but with the practice nurse standing. Unfortunately, it was into my left, dominant arm.
A large, tender lump appeared under the skin after a day or two and, although it has decreased in size, it is still there. Following this jab, I have experienced increasingly painful, restricted arm movement. It has significantly affected my daily activities.
My GP has only said that I must have had an allergic reaction to the vaccine and that the lump is scar tissue. I have been offered no treatment on the NHS, so I have now resorted to paying for private physiotherapy to try and undo some of the damage and prevent further damage.”
What’s Your Experience?
We would like to know how you have made out with a flu shot? Did it protect you from influenza? Or did you come down with the flu anyway? Last year’s shot wasn’t that great. Was it pain free or did you experience should pain? Please share your story below and vote on this article at the top of the page.
Gloria
Nurses are not giving the shots anymore. They are given by my pharmacist, m.a., and clerks at the pharmacy. I had to stop the girl from giving my husband his shot. She was inserting it into the top of the arm. I showed her how to give a shot and told the pharmacy she should be trained.
Paula
Wednesday, 11th Dec. 2019: Flu jab really made me scream; it seemed to hit the bone at top of left arm instead of injecting into the muscle, as recommended. The woman who did this at a local pharmacy, Brighton UK, implied that I was making a fuss. Two weeks later my arm is still sore. I massage it every day. Do the people who give these flu jabs get proper training, and should ! complain?
Diana
Miami, Florida
I never believed in shots but heard so much about older people dying of flu complications that I decided to get vaccinated just before Thanksgiving. What a mistake. My arm hurt, then the pain went to my left chest, then to the crease of my left leg. Now my arm is so painful I can hardly lift it. I couldn’t believe the flu shot could be the reason but my experience is validated by others now. It’s February 7th, and it hurts worse than it did in the beginning.
Bill
Utah
I got the flu shot over a month ago at the VA Hospital in Salt Lake City and my arm still hurts it is difficult to sleep and I get tingling down my left arm to the wrist and hand. I am a driver for the VA and this shot is a requirement for employment. At this point I would rather be unemployed than in this pain.
Kaye
Was it Flucelvax? I’m having similar symptoms, 2 months on.
KATHY
IMPERIAL PA
Had flu shot by pharmacist at Rite-Aid, Really hurt when she gave it, Sept. 2018, now 1 month later can barely use my left arm, have been reading she could have hit a nerve, any idea will this go away.
Billyjet
Bethpage ,New York
I received my annual flu shot at a big-chain pharmacy, as I do every year. However, this year I have had pain in my left arm for four weeks now after the injection . Sleeping is a problem, as I like to sleep on my left side. I cannot do that now. Playing golf is very painful, and it’s a game I enjoy. I find that working out at the gym does help to a certain extent. I hope in time the pain subsides, and I get back to normal I will not be getting a flu shot ever again.I’d rather get the flu. .
Gina G
North Hollywood
on 10/1/18 I had my flu shot and a pneumonia shot the same time, one in each arm. The nurse went extremely high on my right shoulder, and that is where the flu vaccine was given. Today is the 4th, and my right arm hurts so badly that I cannot even open a door. I cannot lift my arm up without flinching. I have had a flu shot every year now for the last 5 years and never have I had this reaction. I am going to wait a few more days and hope that this goes away. Otherwise I will file a report. Something is different, and I am hoping it hasn’t caused any serious damage.
Joanne
Greenville
The exact same thing for me. I can not believe how many people have the same problem. I have never had this problem before.
Mindy
North Carolina
I had my flu shot and pneumonia shot in the same arm on October 5 2016. The pharmacy tech only spaced the shot two inches apart.
My arm swelled almost to my wrist and it turned red. I went back to Walmart and they gave me at no charge benedyrl. It took almost a week for the swelling to go away. I had a huge knot at the injection site. It took it over nine months to go away. It has continued to eat away at my muscle until it feels like it us to the bone. It is hurting tonight 10/3/18 so bad that I started looking. My shoulder has hurt bsfly and lit range of motion, but I had not realized it could be from the shots.
I am going to file a report. Way too many people hurting here with same complaint.
Carol A Vorce
VA
I had my flu shot 3 weeks ago . The injection didn’t bother me but the day after I’ve been having pain from my shoulder down to my elbow I also had injected my dinoman arm my left arm and I like sleeping on my left side I can’t even do that but the pain just not go away
Sara
florida
i normally do not get the flu shot, but I was training an intern and thought i would let him give me a flu shot. I am a Pharmacist and we are pushed to give vaccine quotas and with a intern it makes the demand less burdensome. I told him to give the shot in the thickest portion of the deltoid, but he was trained as many to give the shot in the triangle at the high part of the upper arm. The shot did not cause discomfort initially, but over the course of the year, i have experiencing more pain. At first it was mainly at night, now it i experience pain throughout the day. The pain and discomfort is in the arm and not at my joints, and unfortunately my range of motion is continually being diminished. I am required to meet a specific quota of Flu shots this year and I am asked quite often “Did you get yours?” i tell them I had a bad reaction and it is no longer recommended for me. I hope that it is technique and the cause is the Flu shot itself. Oh by the way, I also became ill last year with a virus that had all the earmarks of the flu, but it was very short lived. I only missed one day of work and only experienced a single real debilitating day.
Maria A
Or
I had a flu shot seven days ago. I got a little local drugstore where I always get it every year. I am insured so not only is it still painful but it was also more expensive than last year they said it was a four way. I cannot sleep on my left side without incredible pain. I can’t lift up my left arm past my shoulder And I thought I was going crazy until I found this website.
Stephanie
Philadelphia
I just received my flu shot last Wednesday on my left arm upper arm area I was told I would have pain for up to 4 days and to move my arm. It’s day 9 and the pain is worse I can barely move my arm with light pain. I am angry and hope this doesn’t continue very long however reading other stories I’m not so sure. I enjoy working out and now am I going to have to stop lifting weights I can’t believe a simple shot can take away your mobility.
Lisa
Florida
I received my flu shot on Aug 24th from the pharmacy at Publix. The pharmacist gave me the shot high up on my arm, and I didn’t feel it but immediately my arm started to feel sore. I thought this was normal but it will be two weeks on Friday, and I am in a lot of pain. I cannot sleep on that side, and I cannot lift up my arm without pain. It is very weak. There is an issue with this vaccine if all of these people are having the same problems. I am a dance teacher, and I need full movement of my arm
ROBERT
AUSTRALIA
Extreme pain, restricted movement, wheezing,lack of concentration.
Michelle
USA
I happened on this article because my daughter asked me to get a TDAP shot before our visit with our new grandchild. I have had flu shots twice. On both occasions I had severe shoulder pain and my arm became numb for about two days. Both the pain and the numbness resolved after a few days. However, my Doctor no longer recommends I get flu shots as she is concerned that I could develop Guillain Barre.
I am in the high risk category due to age and other medical conditions. Reading up on TDAP and Flu shots it seems that any injection can cause severe arm pain (the kind where you cannot use your arm at all). I’ve not heard or read of others who developed numbness. Anyone else out there have a similar reaction?
Tanya
Canada
Mar 10, 2018 I received a vaccination with pretty bad shoulder pain that just persisted. By day 2-3 I knew it wasn’t normal. 3 doctors later no one believed me. After searching online I realised I wasn’t going crazy, it was definitely the vaccination. About a month ago, 4 weeks in, my pain was as bad as though it was still day 3, no resolution at all. I read comments on here, noticing that comment after comment is talk about how there has been absolutely no improvement even months or years later.
That night, I cried myself to sleep wondering what life would be like, living with that shoulder pain for years. Well fast forward to now, I am almost pain free – definitely don’t think about it at all anymore. The pain is only there if I look for it, and doing a very particular, odd and exaggerated movement of my shoulder which is never actually functionally necessary and even then the pain is minor. So I am ecstatic about it. It took 7-8 weeks to resolve. I went to a fabulous physiotherapist who worked out the scar tissue, I did diligently exercises twice daily and applied a cold pack but things improved the most honestly when I went to mexico for a week.
Maybe the heat and humidity was what helped. Who knows. A colleague of mine had this as well and is a body builder, I feel strongly that her persistent exercising probably greatly contributed to her full recovery too. Just wanted to leave a positive comment about the pain actually resolving in case there is someone out there reading like I did a month ago, getting incredibly discouraged…. Well there is hope!
Jacalyn
Plymouth MN
I had the flu shot in October, 2017. I went to a pharmacy, and while I sat the pharmacist administered the shot standing up. Within 48 hours I lost all range of motion and was in terrible pain. I called the pharmacy and they knew nothing about correlation to the flu shot and shoulder pain. I asked a few medical doctors, who thought a nerve was hit. I then went to a chiropractor who checked on flu shots and shoulder injuries and discovered SIRVA. I filled out the forms, which took forever, as I had to find out the lot # and manufacturer of the serum (which is still in my bursa). Every time I started filling out the form, I had to begin again to find the needed information.
I had an MRI, which shows a torn rotator cuff and partial bicep tear. I have seen an orthopedic surgeon and will need surgery. I have been through PT and acupuncture but am living with chronic pain. I am a yoga and group fitness instructor. I have continued to work, and I think because of that I have not lost full use of my arm. Once I have the surgery, I will probably have to stop working unless people are OK with a one-armed teacher. I won’t be able to drive for some time. My daughter, her husband, and 4 yo old twins just moved from the east coast so I could help them out. Am so disappointed that I can’t do that.
I did retain a local lawyer, but she has not followed up with questions I’ve asked her. Today, 4/23/18, it will be 6 months since I’ve had the shot and can begin the settlement case. Am going to look for a new lawyer, too.
Deborah C.
Georgia
I had the flu shot in oct 2017. I have extremely bad pain in my left arm. I do not know what to do. My Dr. suggested physical therapy.
Jacalyn
Plymouth MN
I wrote to this blog last April and wanted to send an update. The shoulder surgeon had me take a second MRI. It showed a full tear of the rotator cuff. I had surgery 6 weeks ago. The surgery was out-patient. I had to be on opioids round the clock to stay ahead of the pain for about 3-4 days. I began PT a week and a half after surgery. I had PT twice a week for 6 weeks, and am now once a week. Our local TV station reported on the importance of the flu shot. I decided to make my story public and was interviewed by the news. They also interviewed an infection disease doctor (who never heard of SIRVA) and a nurse who said I was the first person in over 10 years to have SIRVA. My goal was to educate the medical field and the public about the shot. My video went viral. There were a lot of embellishments to what I said ~ being hospitalized, woman almost loses her arm to flu shot ~ but about 90% of the people realized they probably had SIRVA and no one knew about it. About 5% of the people reaffirmed why they’ll never have a flu shot.
Linda
Hagerstown, Md.
I started having pain in my left arm 2 years ago after getting a pneumonia shot. I thought it would go away, but never did. I had to have the second pneumonia shot for a booster. Again my shoulder kept hurting. I went to my doctor because I couldn’t sleep on my left side, and using my arm in certain positions was very painful. He gave me 2 cortisone shots and then set up an MRI. They reported I had a tear in my shoulder and am waiting to hear from an orthapedic surgeon now. All this started with that pneumonia shot, but they don’t believe me.
Stephanie R.
Rosevill, California
Since my flu shot last October I have experienced the following: a large black and blue mark in the area of the injection; hand/arm trembling, as well as tenderness and inflammatory sensation around my upper arm and shoulder, which wakes me up at night. I do have a mild case of Dupuytren’s disease.
I went to a neurologist for the trembling that at times is very bad and was told that I do not have Parkinson’s disease. As the mysterious trembling increases, I am more and more convinced that it was caused by the flu shot. Before going back to the doctor, I would like to hear your opinion. Thank you
Carol D
Pine Bluff, AR
Flu vaccination 10/18/2017 – normal pain for 2 days. Extreme soreness in my left upper arm and shoulder since 10/20/17 – 6 months later and it still hurts like the devil. Limited range of motion. Putting on and taking off clothes is an ordeal. I am so thankful I took the shot in my left arm. I’m right handed and this much pain on my right side would be more debilitating than it is on my left side. The pain is excruciating. I’ve been to a Neurologist to rule out the symptoms aren’t coming from a different area like my neck. I’ve had an MRI and I have more test (Myelogram) this Friday to help me figure out what’s going on. I’ve always thought the flu shot caused all this, but I am going through the process to find relief. After reading these thoughts others have shared, I’m leaning more and more toward the cause being the flu vaccination. I’ll let everyone know more when I see my doctor next week. I pray for each of you – this is the worse pain I’ve ever had and the longest ongoing! If anyone who has commented finds relief, please share with the rest of us. We all want this pain to stop!
Eve
San Diego
Got a flu shot in 2003. Massive swelling in muscles and joints. I have not bent my fingers or turned my neck for 15 years. I was told to be VERY patient.
Tracy
I received the flu shot last October, 2017, because it is mandatory in my nursing college. The shot was given in my left deltoid. Since that time I experienced extreme pain in my left arm, and the pain radiated up into my neck,making it hard to sleep for about 2 weeks. The neck pain has since subsided; however, I still continue to have extreme pain in my left arm.
Not only do I experience this pain, but I also have limited range of motion and decreased strength! For instance, I can’t even hold my 6 month-old nephew very long without feeling week in that arm, and experiencing pain. The nurse injected it correctly, but I know it was the vaccine that has caused this damage!
Also, several others in my nursing student cohort are experiencing similar symptoms. My neighbor works in a medical facility where flu vaccines are mandatory, as well, and she told me that her coworker experienced severe pain in her arm which radiated up into her neck. Honestly, I do not consider these incidences as mere coincidence but, a severe adverse reaction caused by the chemicals in the vaccine!
Irene
Salinas, California
On January 3, 2018, I received a Afluria Quad 2017-2018 Syringe flu shot at Costco in Salinas, CA. This was a very bad idea! I normally go to my doctor for my shot, but she had already run out since I decided on it so late. Since my shot at Costco, my left arm has not been the same. I now have limited range of motion, I’m taking pain killers, I wake up throughout the night due to pain and discomfort, and this has never happened to me before. I don’t know what to do. I found this forum and saw the other stories similar to mine and I too think it’s important to share what happened to me. Thank you.
Sandra S
Texas
Would like to add to my previous post:
I received the fluzone high dose for seniors.
I have reduced range of motion in my arm.
Restless sleep from the pain.
Sandra S.
Texas
Got flu shot Jan 26, 2018. Told the pharmacist the injection hurt! My upper arm is still sore after six weeks. Plan to go to a physical therapist to see if there is another cause for my pain.
I had flu B Dec 27, before I got the flu shot. Prescribed
Oseltamiver.
Jan
England
I had my flu vaccine 23rd September, 2017. It’s now March 2018 and still have horrendous pain in my shoulders, muscles and joints. Have seen three doctors but still in pain. This came on within hours of having the vaccine. I’m finding life very difficult as it’s restricting movement of all kinds. Glad to know it’s not all in my head. Let’s hope we all get sorted ASAP.
Linda
Louisiana
I had my annual flu shot in October 2017. Not my first one and never any problems prior to this one. Injection site was red, slightly swollen for a couple of days…sometimes typical, so I didn’t think much about it. However, my upper arm and shoulder is STILL hurting to this date February 28, 2018. I have to stop and rest it when styling my hair. The pain often wakes me at night. Will it eventually get back to normal?
Ed
Marietta, Ga
Had flu shot just after Thanksgiving 2017. My arm still hurts 27 Feb, 2018. Have fatty lump in bend of
elbow and under arm. There are a lot of us with pain but does anyone know what the cure is?
Rochelle
Miami,florida
My flu shot was administered to me during the first week of November 2017
By my regular physician in Toronto, Canada. It wS given in my left arm . I am left handed. It is now feb. 14, 2018 and my arm is still in pain. I could not lift it for 2months, sleeping was a problem. Eating and dressing almost impossible . I was crying out involuntarily. With every movement. I am still aware of the
Pain. It is over 3months.
Good news—- I have not had the flu——-yet.
Rochelle zabitsky
Denise
Roanoke, Va.
I too, also. Got a 3-yr Quadrivalent flu shot on Nov. 16 2017. And here it is February 3, 2018 and have severe pain in my left shoulder. It is more when I sleep and relaxing and winding down at night. I’m a stomach and side sleeper. At first I though it was me sleeping that way, but then when I wake up to go to the bathroom or roll over I have to assist raising my left arm because it hurts so bad. I’ve been getting the flu shot since 2012 and never had any trouble with it until now.
Karla
Gregory, SD
I, too got a flu shot on 11/7/17. I don’t know what kind, but I don’t think it was a 3-yr one. Anyway, here it is 2/20/18 and I have severe pain in my left shoulder. Like you, I notice it more towards evening, although I’ve woke up in the morning with so much pain I’ve had to sleep on a heating pad. I used to sleep on my left side & I definitely can’t do that anymore! Even when I lay on my right side it hurts my left shoulder because it feels it’s pulling the muscles towards the bed. I have to lay on my back, which I hate, because I’ve always had bad dreams when I sleep on my back. I notice during the early evening, more so than during the day, that lifting my arm straight out is painful & hard to do. VERY FRUSTRATING!!!
Beverly
San Antonio, Texas
I had the flu shot about a month ago my arm was sore. I thought that it was normal. Now my arm hurts all day long and I can’t sleep at night because of the pain. I am going to call the doctor and set an appointment. So glad I read all these reports. There has to be something we can do. I have never had a flu short before and I will never take one again. It is hard to function at work because of the pain.
Julie S
Petersfield
Same has I had my flu jab. November 2017 now Feb 2018. In pain can’t lift my arm up. Now can’t sleep with pain can’t do my job properly at work really getting me down now don’t know what to do may be take this further any idea please.
Heidi
Northern Ca
My flu shot was administered by Walgreens 4 months ago. The pharmacist standing, jabbed my left arm with the shot while I was sitting. I was so shocked at how rough she was I stood up and left without a word or a bandaid. The site was sore for a few days and achy, which I’ve felt before. But a week after til now, 4 months later, I have excruciating pain with certain movements like crossing my arms, while sleeping if I raise it, I can’t sleep on that side, a swinging side movement. These movements are so painful it causes nausea and it takes a few moments to gather myself from the effects of the pain. The Dr didn’t say much and the pharmacist of CVS thinks I have a bone bruise from the abrupt stab. And if this isn’t enough, I got the flu three times since the shot. Feeling very frustrating.
Alice
New Jersey
I, too, received my annual flu shot in October 2017. I have been getting the flu shot for the past 20 years without a problem. This year the shot was given to me high on my left shoulder area. Ever since then, I have had an achy soreness high up on my left arm. I usually sleep on my left side, but now if I turn to that side at night, I wake up due to the pain. I sleep with a small pillow under that arm and often take Advil to quiet it down. It is not excruciating and not constant, but when it starts to ache, it is extremely annoying. I also feel a bit of weakness in that arm.
Marion
Scotland
I had my flu jab in October2017. It has been very pain full went to GP given cream to rub on (useless). Surely it can’t be all in our heads, take very strong pain relief but does not help arm.
S H
OR
So helpful to find I am not making this up . Left arm is extremely painful. Especially my shoulder. Have never had an adverse reaction to a flu shot before.
Sandra
St. Louis, Mo.
I totally understand how you feel. I have little relief from the shoulder pain. The pain often radiates to my neck and down my arm resulting in excurciating pain.
Im miserable often loosing sleep. Whats bad is I need to be up sometimes earlybto take care of my Momma or pick up a 14 yr old at the bus.
Love n Light, SG
Carol
New jersey
I had a shingles vaccine September 8, 2016. Soon after I not only had a shingles reaction but a very painful shoulder. I’ve been to 4 orthopedist, 3 pain doctors. And PT 2 times 3 times a week for 3 months. I am in pain but not like I was a year ago.
I did report to the CDC my reaction.
I continue to have a problem and continue to make my shoulder better.
Carol S
LOU
NV
We moved to the states summer of 2016. My daughter recommended we all get the flu shot since we will be experiencing our first winter. I got my flu shot on my left arm around. That night, I experienced awful pain on my arm to the point where I couldn’t lift it up. I had difficulty moving my arm and I couldn’t sleep on my left side.
I did visit my doctor and she had an x-ray done on it but the result came up nothing. It has been more than a year now but I am still having severe pain on my left arm. The pain is really bad when I raise my arm and I can no longer use my left hand to scratch my back because it my arm hurts. I would wake up in the middle of the night due to the pain. The good thing is that we survive our first winter without having the flu. The bad thing is that I now have this constant pain on my arm and it doesn’t seem like there is any remedy for it.
I agree with the others who mentioned that it would have been tolerable getting the flu instead of having to endure this pain probably forever. Never getting the flu shot ever again.
Nancy
Roseville, MN
I’m not getting another flu shot either! I’m really getting tired of being ‘brushed off’ by doctors due to recommended medical procedures. Now I have arm pain and the best my doc comes up with is Fybro.
Dale
Gainesville, Florida
I had the flu shot in mid-October, and my left deltoid hurts 2 months later. It seems OK until I raise my arm a certain way, and then it hurts quite a bit.
I am a health professional (RN) and am required to get the shot, but I am not sure I want to do it again. I am reserving judgement to see how long this pain will last.
Brian
SC
I had the more potent flu shot in September, and now in December still have shoulder pain. PT, heat, cold, cortisone shot, massage, etc., have provided no relief. x-Ray and MRI say nothing. Does anyone know of a remedy that actually has worked?
Charles
Southwest Missouri
Received flu shot during annual visit with PC about 2 months ago, administered as in previous years by his nurse. Didn’t hurt and with very little soreness afterwards. At about two weeks after, I notice when I moved my arm in an abnormal position and especially under stress it would hurt severely and ache for about two minutes. The symptoms persist.
Dennis
Richardson, Tx
Me too !! I had mine high on the shoulder and felt like he hit the bone and I winced in pain. Sure enough the next day my left shoulder started throbbing and now I can’t sleep at night very well and can’t lift my arm without feeling excruitiating pain. Now that I know that I’m not alone am going back to the pharmacy and let them know what happened and get this DOCUMENTED.
ed
san francisco
I received my vaccine shot in late October and it is bothering me now…what is strange was when administered I didn’t feel anything. I was so surprised it didn’t hurt or sting at all. It was only after that it hurt that night and now it is a slightly sore every morning. It doesn’t completely resolve and still feel the soreness tonight
Alexa
Aurora
I too had the flu shot about 5 weeks ago in my right arm. It has been aching ever since. I asked the nurse that gave the shot about the pain and she said it was likely psychosomatic. All I know is in the past, this has never happened before when I received a flu shot. I do not know what to do.
Coreen
Wisconsin
Four weeks ago had flu shot in right arm / pneumonia shot in left. Both given very high near shoulder (at least 3/4″ than I remember from previous ones). Left arm hurt worse for 2 days then gradually improved. Right arm movements are slower and arm sore in shoulder area, painful to touch/rub.
Carol
Duluth, Mn
This is so alarming. I had a forced flu shot 12 days ago. Had them use the left deltoid as I am right handed. I would say approx 4-5 days later I started having pain not directly at the injection site but up near the shoulder area and it feels as though it is pinching and burning.
Every 7 seconds there is a twinge of pain and the pain is also down the outside of my upper arm. I am also experiencing pain in my left neck area.
Terry
MA
I got my flu shot (Flucelvax quad) on 11/1/17 at CVS. The initial injection was painless, and I didn’t have much at all right afterwards, but starting about 10 days ago I got what I thought was a bad cold. My left arm at the injection site started hurting (sort of a burning ache) intermittently, and I’m having minor problems with that wrist that I’m not sure are related, The ‘cold’ seems to have cleared up for the most part. No other symptoms (arm has full range of motion if a bit stiff at times; not red, swollen and pressing on/kneading the skin doesn’t hurt at all). Stretching the shoulder does help (I don’t notice any discomfort when I’m working). Never had anything like this happen with a flu shot before.
Bridgette
Livonia Michigan
I received my flu shot in October, 2017. Its now November 29th, 2017, and I’m having severe pain in my right arm, which is my dominant side. It feels like someone stabbed me in my arm, and they’re turning the knife in my bone. I am in the nursing field at a skilled nursing/rehab center. I am a Restorative Tech, and my job consists of performing range of motion on our Residents. I cannot peform my job to the fullest due to the pain in my right arm. The pain of performing passive range of motion on others almost kills me. Also terribly painful is putting splints, braces on contracted residents. I need help.
Patti
Berkeley,CA
Had a flu shot 3 weeks ago and still intense pain when I try to lift that arm.
Maher
Princeton, NJ, USA
I had my shot on 10/05/2017, and until today I am having a very painful left arm with limited movement range. I cannot lift with that arm. I am certain it was caused by either the flu shot itself or how it was administered.
Maggie
VA
I received my FLu shot on October 25th at the local big-name pharmacy, and I have had severe pain and limited movement in my left arm ever since. When I first received the shot it was 8pm at night, and I recall getting an unusual pain that radiated in my arm and into my neck. For the last several weeks it has stayed in my upper arm and occasionally radiates down into my hand, it almost feels like it morphs. I have noticed strange itchiness at the site and just have not felt great since receiving the shot. Certain very simple every day movements are impossible and are severely painful. I have had previous flu shots and have NEVER experienced this before. I don’t know if it was a bad batch of flu shots. I got the batch number and the manufacturer name from Wegmans. I think we should ALL check if there is a common thread or just poor administration of the shot by the person. Like many off you I work out daily and moving my arm just to run is impossible. I reported this to store’s pharmacist, and she said they have NEVER heard of such a thing. That’s curious since I am finding many of you who HAVE experienced the same thing.
Terri
Laurel, Maryland
I had my flu shot administered October 6, 2017 and continue to have soreness and restricted movement as well. It hurts very bad while sleeping.
Donna
Indiana
Me, thought it went away but it’s back, very painful and limited movement!
My shot was 14 days ago !
Rollie
Rosemount, MN
It’s been 3 weeks since my shot and trying to not be “a big baby,” I keep wondering why my shoulder is so sore. It feels like it’s toward the back when I try to massage that area… up by the bone. I have pain when I lift it and ESPECIALLY IN BED! I don’t lie on it but I can barely lift my arm without pain. I’ve gotten a flu shot every year but never had this type of lingering pain. It just doesn’t seem to go away! I’m glad it’s my left arm as that’s not my dominant side but still it’s making doing things difficult. I’m a very active person and this is slowing me down. I’m wondering does it eventually heal? Maybe it takes months? I’d like some sort of hope, even if it’s a long time. That’d be better than thinking this is permanent!
Nancy C
940 Manton ave. Providence
I had my flu shot on 10/24/17. My arm been in pain ever since I can sleep at night. My Dr prescribed me some strong medication so I can sleep at night. It has been a month with this pain. My Dr is sending me for some test.
Dave
CT, USA
Karen and Jo – I’m having the same experience with pain and lack of full motion to do some simple tasks – since September! Tonight after turning to use my arm to pick up something off the table to my side and having pain and inability to complete the motion, I googled ‘flu shot arm pain’ and found this webpage. Now I see, this isn’t just my experience.
Colleen
Michigan
Same thing here…flu shot 3 weeks ago…reachign my left arm to side table and fee like I have loss of strength and vey weak. I stumbled on the idea of having my flu shot in that arm…and googled it and found it is a real thing!! NOW WHAT DO WE ALL DO?????
Lynn
Illinois
I got an influenza vaccine at my PCP’s office on 10/18/17 and my arm has hurt tremendously ever since. I was sitting; the nurse was standing. I have spoken to the nurse who injected me and she states this has never happened before.
No help was provided as the physician was out of the country when I called. I am sure it is SIRVA. My arm hurts all the time, radiating down my arm into the little finger with movement, and wakes me up if I roll onto my side at night. I keep hoping it will just go away, but so far it has not.
ANNETTE B
New York
Wow! I have been searching the internet since 2015 flu shot to see if any others had reaction to the shot..I just came across this arrival 2017!!! I had such severe arm pain that spread into my legs, and soon my entire body!
Muscle pain was unbearable and I also had a hard limp where the injection was! This pain has not gone away and I have not received a flu shot since, and will never again get one… I warn people all the time about flu shots! I wish I had never got one!
Ray
Ontario, Canada
I am 43 and received my flu shot 3 weeks ago from a Doctor. I am still experiencing the sore and pain on my injection area. It was the first time I experienced it.
Karen
SC
I too had the flu shot 9/13/17 and have had pain the the injection area ever since.
I’m glad to hear I’m not the only one.
Annie S
Pa
I had my annual flu shot about 5 weeks ago at our local Target where we have always received our shots in the past. Just a few hours later that afternoon my arm and shoulder became much more painful than I have ever experienced in the past.
I also received the shot several inches higher than I ever had it placed before, well above the fleshy part of my arm and right on the bone it seemed. When I questioned why it was placed so high the reply was that the location did not matter. It is still very painful, with a limited range of motion and hurts to raise my arm, as I am a very active person this is beginning to really get me down.
Yolanda
virginia
I just received flu shot a few weeks ago and my left shoulder and arm still hurt. It hurts to lift my left arm. I feel the pain in my elbow and down my arm. I have gotten flu shots before and never experienced this before.
Jo
Ball,La,
I got the shot Oct. 28,2017, and my shoulder still hurts. Sometimes the pain is in my lower part of my arm also. I have never had a shot that left lingering pain in my arm.
Kay
Greer, SC
I too am having soreness in my left shoulder after having a flu shot about a month ago. Pain when raising my arm.
Leslie
Flagler beach, FL
I had a flu shot 3 weeks ago at Walgreens. She did inject it up higher than a usual flu shot. My arm was sore, and then it went to my shoulder. I can hardly do anything with that arm without pain. Now my neck is sore. How long will this last???????? Sleepless in Florida
Dianne
Iowa
I’m having the same problem with my left shoulder – pain, range of motion issues – a week after a tetanus booster in my left deltoid. Worried. It seems to have referred from the injection site, which is still sore, to my rotator cuff area.
Richard
des moines, ia
I received the senior flu shot 3 weeks ago, mgr of walgreens administered it. gave me the shot almost straight down thru rt shoulder. I have been in excruciating pain and immobility ever since. been to two doctors and a physical therapist. no relief yet. helppppppp
SKA
West Palm Beach, FL
I have been getting a flu shot every year for probably 15-20 years or more and have never got the flu since then and never had any problem at all. I have always been a big proponent of the flu shot. I just got this year’s shot yesterday and I have a large lump on my arm that itches and is painful. It is also very high on my arm as most other people are saying. I’m a little worried at some of the side effects that I am reading about. I don’t know if it makes any difference but I always went to Walgreens for the shot before, but this time I went to Publix since they offered a $10 gift certificate if you get your shot there. I don’t remember ever getting the shot so high up on my arm and also this is the first time it was a little painful. Anyway, that has been my experience.
Kate
Uk
My partner had the flu jab at the end of 2016 , recommended by his doctor for health reasons. His arm by the end of the night had started to swell really badly. He was told ” that this can happen”, ” give it a few days”.
But it didn’t get any better. 10 months later ,he can’t sleep , the pain is so unbearable at times and is bringing him down emountialy and physically. He found himself crying in frustion in front of the doctor.
We explained we discovered this web site , could not believe other people had the same symptoms , could it be Sirva ? Which he refused to except. Physio didn’t work. It’s like shut up and go away and take painkillers! Which only last so long , He wants to no what is wrong with him and who can fix it and when will He get better.
Is their a test to prove or disprove sirva .we managed to get the doctor to put him on a waiting list for some sort of scan .( 7 month waiting list)! What’s a disprate man to do until then.
Dennis
New jersey
I got a flu shot yesterday, today I have a lot of pain in my shoulder and neck. Didn’t realize it was from the shot till I touched my arm And it was sore. I guess I should call the office and tell them?
Carla
Somerset,nj
I have been getting a flu shot for several years, and last year 2016 for the first time ever, was the most painful. I had gotten it from shop right in Bound Brook, NJ. I had pain in my right arm for a good six months before it finally cleared up. I just don’t understand why that shot bothered me for so long. Could it be something in the shot itself?? It was scary and painful. I am a 55 year old female.
Antonio
Kailua, Hawaii
I had the flu shot on September 22 2017. Today is October 16 and still the shoulder pain wakes me up and can’t sleep on the left side. My doctor told me I am the first to report this injury out of hundreds shots given every year. I am taking a pain killer and doing therapy but the pain doesn’t go away.
Aileen
NH
I’m a nurse and received the “mandatory” flu shot from a co-worker. When she administered this last year I and a couple other nurses thought she gave it higher than we thought we would give it. This year was the same. Less than 3 hours later I was in a great deal of discomfort with limited range of motion. The tendonitis/bursitis I developed after extensive yard work last spring felt like it got reignited! Constant ache, pinching with movement, tender to external pressure.
I’m only 5 days into this but I hope this resolves soon. I believe it is the result of poor technique but could it be the flu formulary instead?
Charlotte H
AL - Alabama [USA]
I received flu shot yesterday and it was high on my left arm. It’s hurt alot since then. Couldn’t hardly sleep last night. I sure hope this doesn’t continue. Took Tylenol for pain. Did help a little.
Teresa
Hednesford
I had the flu jab and my left arm hurts right up the shoulder, hurts when I lift my arm not getting better. The nurse who did it did it too high up the arm.
Asking if my doctor can do it next year. Glad I’m not on my own that many people feel the same as me.
ruby
sc
I will never get a flu shot again
Orlando G
Toms River,NJ
I use a catheter to urinate but right after the 2017 flu shot I wake up the middle of the night with an urgency to urinate but not a total voiding.This occurs every 15 mins. and I need a heavy duty depends not to leak. I am eighty seven yrs. old and am losing a lot of sleep.
I finally do a full catheterization just to get back to sleep. I also got severe pain in my right shoulder where the injection was for the first time in my life.
Suzanne
Louisiana
My 81 yrs old Mother got her flu shot last Thursday (Oct 5, 2017) and is now complaining of shoulder and arm pain. This the first time she has ever had any problems.
Colleen
NJ
My 6 year old daughter got the flu shot on Tuesday. Her little arm is swollen, bright red, itchy, hot to touch. Very uncomfortable. I feel so bad. I didn’t want to get it. I should have listened to myself instead of the asthma dr advice.
Arleth
I just got the flu shot yesterday and my arm was shaking and it was still shaking after the flu shot it hurts like a normal flu shot would but for some reason before the flu shot i fell to the ground and I hurt my big toe and now it’s been hurting and the skin that’s on the nail has turned into a light green and now a day after my flu shot I am typing this right now while I am already ready for school and waiting to go to school my leg started hurting into serve pain it still is I told my mom she said tell the nurse in school I will
Esther
Florida
I received the quad flu vaccine 2 days past. My left arm is in severe pain! Never has a flu shot left a lingering pain before.
Kristeen
Auckland N Z
I have had the Flu shot with no problems for many years. Until this year 2017. At this time I also had the shingles vaccine. Some weeks later (aprox. 6) I noticed the pain and spoke to my doctor about it. She sent me for a test to see if it was the nasty Poly Myalgia Rheumatica, a condition that my mother had for years. I didn’t get an answer so guessed that it was negative. Later I asked her, and she said no – if I had that, it would be in both my arms.
It was the nurse at the surgery who gave me the inoculations, and while I did not watch her give it to me – I am very sure that it was near the top of my arm.
Kathleen
Arizona (AZ)
I received my flu shot at work by independent contractor that came through. Gave it up high in the arm in October 2016. I am now on my third month of physical therapy due to rotary cuff tendonitis.
The pain became worse to the point that I couldn’t use my right arm at all. It almost caused my shoulder to lock up. I also have pain that radiates down my arm and affects my hand and up my neck.
Michael
IL
It’s a relief to see I’m not on my own! Though it’s a bit worrying there seems no solution, and maybe it doesn’t get better… I had a flu shot around 6 months ago at CVC. I don’t remember it being applied high on my arm, though I have a vague recollection it was a little unusual. I didn’t experience unusual pain, but some degree of pain has stayed with me since then, and it appears to be getting worse even months after the shot. Like others, I have issues raising my arm and it is painful when I lift and pull it back (as I do when putting on my suit jacket). I notice it when sleeping, though that is maybe getting better rather than worse. It also feels to me as if my muscle tone is degrading in that one spot. I am in my late 50s but I run or ride everyday and I’m pretty active. I would be really keen to hear from anyone who has experienced this for more than a month or two, and has then had it go away.
Vicki
San Antonio
Michael- I had my flu shot 4 weeks ago and have since been on a steroid pack, and my doctor started me on Celebrex for the pain in my shoulder. He thinks the needle hit my tendon. I’ve been experiencing most of the pain at night as well. Did your shoulder heal? I am also very active. And have been able to exercise. But certain motions cause my should to pop or feel sore.
Sherry Smith
MI
I received a flu shot from my doctor’ office in December 2016. My left shoulder has been hurting every since. I called him 3 weeks later & told him about the pain. I was told take some ibuprofen 3 tumes a day for 2 weeks & the pain should go away. it’s now April 2017 & the pain is still there. Sometimes, the pain throbs so bad, I need to a pain reliever. It’s sore to touch the spot where I received the shot, can’t sleep on my left side for more than 5-10 minutes. range of motion is limited & arm is ALWAYS site & hurting. My doctor said it appears I’m allergic to the flu shot & don’t get it again…. He didn’t have to tell me that!!
Sherry Smith
MI
I received a flu shot from my doctor’ office in December 2016. My left shoulder has been hurting every since. I called him 3 weeks later & told him about the pain. I was told take some ibuprofen 3 tumes a day for 2 weeks & the pain should go away. it’s now April 2017 & the pain is still there. Sometimes, the pain throbs so bad. I need s pain relief. it’s site to touch the spot, can’t sleep on my left side for more than 5-10 minutes. range of motion is limited & arm is ALWAYS site & hurting.
Nisha
Michigan
I currently work at a Hospital. I had to get a flu shot this year in January. I wasnt too aware of where she injected the shot but shortly after my srm became real sore. The soreness went away but not completely after a few weeks but then it slowly came back and as of now everyday it feels like its getting more sore, stiff day by day. It hurts to lift my arm.
emilio
lakeland, fl.
I was checking on line about arm and shoulder muscle pain and come to see all the people that complained about their pain starting after getting their flu shot. I have NEVER got one before and this time about five months ago I got one. Big mistake, I have been having muscle pain on my right hand since then, cann’t hardly move arm back. Will have to check more on this now that I see how many other people had the same problem.
Jean
Pennsylvania
I received my flu shot at my doctor’s office in early November 2016. While receiving it I felt the most severe pain. I have gotten the flu shot almost every year for the past 20+ years, and I have never felt that much pain. I did feel that it was injected too high on my arm. For several days I could not lift my arm. A month went by and I visited my doctor to report the pain and limited range I was still experiencing. She suggested physical therapy, however, I am 35 miles from a physical therapist, so I have been doing exercises on my own. Now it is mid March and I am still experiencing pain, especially during the night after I have been inactive or perhaps slept incorrectly on my arm. I have found ibuprofen helps but I do not want to take that daily as I have stomach issues. I rely on Salonpas to help in the night. I hope this pain eventually goes away and I can fully use my left arm again. I am still using my adapted dressing habits as I cannot take off or put on my clothes as I did before. I will not be getting the flu shot again next fall. I am wondering if there is a nasal alternative.
Heather
tx
I received a TDAP shot October 2015 from a Walgreens pharmacist. My arm immediately swelled like an egg and burned and itched. It slowly went down after about three weeks but then I began to lose range of motion. I kept thinking it would get better the next day… and the next day… and here I sit over a year later and although I can wash my hair now, I still cannot sleep on that side, fold clothes, lift or exercise, etc. I reached out to a vaccine lawyer and filed a claim with VAERS but the lawyer said because I have a history of neck pain and because I waited 10 weeks to see an orthopedic doctor, I have no claim. This has been a living nightmare – an extremely painful one. This is just wrong! I am a small framed woman, age 45, who apparently received the wrong size needle and an injection too high up on my arm since I literally unbuttoned my shirt and pulled the shoulder down (mistake). Go to a doctor and remove your shirt entirely.
Mary
Albany NY
My mother volunteered at the hospital for 15 years and had to get a flu shot every year. It was “mandatory”. She never had any problems with it. This year she got the shot from her Dr’s office, and 1 hour later she was complaining about the pain in her arm; that it was excruciating. Initially I read the articles about 1 – 2 days of possible pain, then I stumbled onto this page. OMG, I’m horrified. I have never gotten a flu shot, nor do I ever intend to, and now this reaffirms my choice. And “choice” is what it should be for everyone, not “mandatory” for some.
Leah
Henderson Tn
I received the flu shot at school designated for all teachers to receive it when you sign up for it. I have been teaching for over 10 years, and I have received it every year. This year was the first time to have a long-lasting pain that I still struggle with today. I have very little motion and sometimes I can’t raise my arm pass my shoulder. I have had a steroid shot, massages, and using essential oils everyday along with poppin’ Aleve and alternating with Tylenol. There is no relief. I wake up every morning with a throbbing, stabbing, and numbing sensation that it has extended to my neck area that makes it difficult to do easy tasks, such as changing a shirt or brushing my air. I feel as if I losing muscle tone since I am active in running and playing tennis at the age of 49. The pain hurts when I try to do those things that I wonder if I am having an onset of a heart attack. I even went to physical therapy, but could not afford paying forty dollars every time for twice a week for six weeks. If anyone has suggestions on what to do to get relief I am all ears. I just want my arm to feel normal.
Teresa
Northridge
I too do not believe in the flu shot but the doctors really want you to have it and post all kinds of data on the death and complications that arise from the flu. I had also seen many of my family members suffer from the flu so I caved and accepted the flu shot. My “gut feeling” was not to receive it since the nurse seem “weird” … I am extremely upset that I received the flu shot since the flu would have been better then the pain in my shoulder. The pain is intense with limited motion and the worst part is that it seems to be worsening. Scared that the pain will not go away and I will not regain my previous mobility. I will never accept the flu shot again.
Steve
Texas
I got my flu shot three weeks ago at CVS, I thought he did the shot too high on my shoulder now my arm hurts so bad it wakes me up at night. I thought I had injured it at work the same day but after doing some research (4 o’clock in the morning because the pain woke me up) I see that is not the case.
Jeanne
I had a flu shot at my doctor’s office last October. The nurse jabbed me high up on my arm and hit the muscle. She adamantly told me how I flinched. I told her I didn’t and explained she jabbed me in the muscle. Her attitude was aggravating to say the least. My arm has been sore ever since, even getting pain down my arm into my hand. As of the beginning of January, I have been going to physical therapy which has helped my strength but the pain won’t go away! I want to get back to yoga but haven’t been able to ever since the flu shot. Yoga was my last option of any kind of exercise for me since I have two artificial hips and now my exercise regiment, outside of walking, is gone. I’d like to think the pain will eventually go away. I take ibuprofen and even put pain relieving cream on it which both are temporary fixes.
Carly
New York
I already got two shots in June and then I got another one and the guy gabbed into my arm and when I got the first two in June it didn’t hurt and this time it hurt and I think he hit my muscle. And now I can’t move it like I can with my right arm and I can’t sleep on it.
Zoe
Shreveport, Louisiana
This absolutely bites! I’ve had bad should aches and pains since I’ve bad my flu shot a month ago! Is there anything that can be done about this?
John
UK
I have had pain for weeks following the Flu Jab, haven’t been to GP about it. And after reading the other comments probably wont bother as there appears to be a dismissal approach/ attitude to this problem by the medical profession, both in the UK and USA.
Roger
UK
I’m in the UK,had shoulder pain since November 2015 ,following flu jab in left arm,then pneumonia jab in right arm one week later,still have pain and limited movement after 14 months,no answer from doctor ,although some physio did help a little.
Will never have these vaccines again!
Not sure what long term damage has been done.
Kathy
WV
Had the flu shot in October of last year now it’s January can’t raise my arm pain is so severe and shooting pain down my arm. Have tingling in arm and numbness it hurts. Try to massage it but doesn’t help. So tired of the pain.
Marianne
New York
I can’t believe that so many people have written in about problems with the flu shot! The general public should really be aware of this!
I had a flu shot in my left arm at my physician’s office on 12/5/16.
The pain started about 3 hours later and has only gotten worse with time! It hurts so much to move my arm back or extend it out to put on a coat! The pain is excruciating at times! If I am not moving the arm, I don’t notice much pain at all! It is so hard to sleep and find a comfortable position! The pain wakes me up many times at night! I had no trouble at all with this arm or any movement before the flu shot!
I will never get another one!
I’d rather take my chances with the flu! I have an appointment with an orthopedist tomorrow!
Linda
Illinois
I had a flu shot on November 15, 2016 at Walgreens. I thought the pharmacist gave me the shot too high on my arm, but he said that is where you give them. Within less than 2 hours my arm was in such pain I could not move it. I called the pharmacy, and they said to take some ibuprofen. This went on for days until I went to the doctor. Had a pain shot in the hip and steroids. Within a week the pain came back. I then went to an Orthopedic clinic. I was given an MRI and learned that the shot had gone into my bursa, which was causing my pain. I had a steroid shot in the shoulder and therapy. It has been two months now, and the pain is starting to come back. I am going to my doctor again.
Donnie Manning
Oxnard CA
Had the same terrible reaction to the flu shot. Nov. 23 and almost 2 months later bruising has not went away and swelling is the same. Intense pain in the muscle
Gail
Florida
Got the flu shot in October at CVS. My arm is still hurting. Have a hard time at night sleeping, can’t lift my 15 month old twins without hurting. Really makes me mad! There are civil law suits apparently and I might go that route eventually.
Miked
Ohio
Just want to add my two cents:
I too am experiencing the same pain at the injection site of my flu shot from October of this year. I’ve been getting a flu shot for many years, and this is the second time that I have had a problem. Last year I had pain for about a month or so but it gradually subsided, and I believed that it was from improperly administering the shot at the drugstore, and I still do.
This year I made sure that I got the shot from a different pharmacist that I had gone to in the past. Well, when he gave the shot I noticed right away that he was too high up on my shoulder, and it hurt more than usual going in. It’s been three months now and still hurts, especially when awakening at night. I’m hoping it goes away in time.
I won’t stop getting flu shot but now will make sure that the shot that is administered properly, and I will mark the right spot with my hand. I don’t believe that all the people giving the shots are properly trained or take enough caution. In the meantime my shoulder is still hurting, and I will try somewhere else next year.
Robin
Michigan
I had no idea that this was a thing. I started researching my sore painful arm after I have received a Dtap vaccine at my doctors office. I have thin arms and they gave me the injection high up on my arm. It burned so bad going in I grabbed my arm and complained but thought nothing of it until, now, three weeks later I can’t sleep good because my arm hurts. Its a constant. I like to go to the gym and its affecting my work out. I am pretty disappointed that a nurse could mess up my shoulder by a poor administration of a vaccine. I am even more concerned that the pain could be long term after reading more about it. If it does not subside I plan to go back to the doc. I just want to get back to my healthy lifestyle.
Gail
charleston sc
Got my shot September my arm still hurts and can not raise it high… Help what to do……
Jaymee
VA
Got a flu shot at my doctor’s office mostly because I wanted my college-aged son to get one before going back to school from Christmas break. I was seated, nurse was standing, shot in my upper arm near the shoulder joint. (Would not have thought any of that was significant but after reading other post, I can see that it may be.) Injection did not hurt at all but within a few hours my shoulder was killing me. Haven’t been able to sleep on that side since the vaccine. My shoulder is just aching. I am going to try swimming, a regular activity for me, this morning to see if I can work it out.
CONNIE
BARTLETT, TN
I am 59 years old, I got my flu shot (quad) on 12/9/2016 at a Walgreens Health Clinic
I noticed that when she gave it to me it sorta burned going in. My arm was a little tender the next couple of days but after that I have had severe pain since. I am living on Aleve
my are motive is very limited. If I don’t take Aleve I am in horrible pain. I went back to Walgreens after 2 weeks of pain to ask her about it and she pretty much just said try heat or ice when I ask which her response was whichever makes it feel better and that was it. When I was in Walgreens getting some more Aleve I mentioned it to the store manager and his response was yea that’s why I don’t get the flu shot. I am not sure how long I can keep taking Aleve every 12 hours. I wish I could read that the pain would finally stop it’s hard to believe that a flu shot would cause this much pain for such a long period of time.
CONNIE
I have since been on 2 doses of steroids, and now that I have finished them, my arm is still hurting with limited motion. This is horrible and I am more than tired of it.
Dina
I have had the flu shot for about more than a year ago. I know exactly where the shot has been placed. (deltoid) The thing is, I can only feel it sometimes and when I do it hurts really badly!
Can someone please help me or tell me if this is an example of SIRVA?
Donna
Lebanon,mo
I am 67 yrs old and have always gotten a flu shot. Got one in October with no visible reaction as usual,but next morning the aching and pain started. Two weeks later made appoint with my doctor to see what it was and what could be done. She told me that the needle must have hit something in my arm that it would get better that it would take time. Here it is almost January and it is awful. Hurts and still aches and can’t get a good notes sleep. I just want to know if this will ever get better. What can be done to make this go away. After reading all the stories here looks like that it is not going to happen
Terry
Noble Okla.
I got my Flu Shot in Nov. 2016 and have had pain in my arm ever since. I was given the shot in the right arm and the first few days I thought that is just normal but the pain still persists. When I use my arm in some motions it feels like a Charlie horse in my bicep ouch!! Went to my Dr and they did X Rays and found nothing. They offered some steroids and I declined. I guess we are stuck with our pain because nobody is admitting what they may know. DEC 29 2016
Becky
Michigan
I had a flu shot on October 21, 2016. I am still having terrible shoulder pain. I have been to the family doctor twice and he gave me a cortisone shot on my first appointment. On my second appointment he gave me an inflammation drug. Neither one helped. Then 2 weeks ago my orthopedic Dr sent me for an MRI. I followed up in his office 10 days ago. Had another cortisone shot and now on pain medication as well. I can’t do so many things, it’s my right arm which is my dominant one. I have been sleeping in a chair since Oct and can’t lay in a bed. The last appointment I had with the orthopedic doctor didn’t help. I go back next week for another shot. This entire thing is unbelievable. I would rather have the flu. I am scared that nothing is working and so frustrated that I can’t do every thing. Will this last forever? Who knows.
Janet Stewart
United States
I got a flu shot in October 2016 at a kroger pharmacy it hurt really bad when I was injected after that a had a knot to form I was brused and I’m having sever pain in my arm and shoulder it wakes me up at night and when I’m at work. I get a flu shot every year this has nnever happened before. I saked my Dr. she didn’t have an answer for me. What can I do about this pain?
Tanya
PEI, Canada
I had my first flu shot on October 25th, 2016. I am 42 years old. The injection site was sore the first couple days and I’ve had an on/off stuffy and runny nose since. But ,my important issue is with my arm. It was injected into my left shoulder. 2 months later and my arm hurts to move it certain ways and it is weak and hurts if the muscles are used to apply pressure to anything, like closing the snaps of my coat or even opening the lid of a jar. It doesn’t ache, but the arm is useless for doing some things and only hurts when the muscles are needed or moved certain ways. How long will this last? Do I need to see a doctor about this or will he laugh me out of the office? This is inconvenient.
Mark
Union, NJ - USA
The reason I came here is because I’m investigating arm pain long after getting a Flu Shot. I’m sure it’s from the Flu Shot because it is the same pain I experienced immediately following it. I’ve now had it for three weeks and it shows no signs of diminishing. After reading this blog I am going to go back to the CVS where it was administered, explain my situation and have it documented just in case it becomes a more severe problem. I’m hoping that it will just go away on its own. Thanks to peoplespharmacy.com for the insight!
Debbie
Virginia
2 months later after I had the flu shot, Nov 2016, my arm is getting worse. Restricted mobility when trying to do anything with it and the pain that goes along with it! Can’t sleep on my left arm anymore, put on a shirt or take one off without extreme discomfort. I’m scared. Is this ever going to go away?!
Gail
Abbotsford
I received my flu shot on Nov. 3, 2016 at the Shopper’s Drug mart at Gateway Medical Building in Abbotsford. It is now December 17th and I continue to feel pain at the injection site and my shoulder is still swollen. I am very concerned after reading about other people’s experiences.
Marie
Pennsylvania
I had shoulder surgery on my right arm in Oct, so when getting my pneumonia booster I asked the nurse to put it in my left arm….I’ve had more shots than I can mention, but this shot hurt more than any others. She injected me on the top of my shoulder. The next day the area was black and blue, swollen and tender. After a week the area began to itch and hurt, it was red and hot and the size of a baseball. I went to the dr and was told the area was infected. I was told it could have been due to the area the shot was administered, or by the technique of the injection. I was put on an antibiotic and am now dealing with 2 bad shoulders. I will never again get any type of injection in my arms.
Cam
Milwaukee, WI
I got a flu shot on Oct 21,2016. Oh my Gosh it (my left arm) hurts sooooo bad. :(
I am not a wimp when it comes to pain, and typically I do not care to take pills, but that’s how bad it hurts. It’s excruciating. I have tried hot compress, cold compress, ibuprofen, Tylenol, Aleve . Sometimes is feels like twitching is going on in my arm.
Sometimes it feels like a huge charlie horse/Knot. Sometimes it feels like sharp pain going from my arm to my elbow. Sometimes it feels like sharp pain going from my arm to my shoulder up to my neck in the rear of my head. I can no longer sleep on my left side. It’s just horrible. The last thing I want is to be on prescribed pain killers and or over the counter pain pills.
I got the flu shot in 2015 with no side effects whatsoever, but this year ugh, it’s just horrible. I only received it because it was mandatory. :(
I have to wonder if all of the negative flu immunization reported experiences that have occurred are due to having the shot in the left arm and or if everyone received the same strain of flu shot??? I hope that this pain I am experiencing :( eventually goes away. I wish it were already gone, it hurts so bad. :(
Lori
Oh
I had a flu shot a few days ago and the needle hurt so bad, she stuck my arm and then turned the needle upward to inject the fluid. I wanted to scream. I don’t remember it hurting this bad last yr or the yr before that. My arm has been sore since, and I am applying ice for 20mins as needed. Taking advil and praying this pain goes away..
Beth
Arizona (AZ)
I have gotten a flu shot every year for the past ten years with no problem.
A month ago I received a flu shot from a pharmacist. I was seated and he was standing. It hurt badly while receiving the shot. That seemed odd, but after a month has gone by, I am still having a lot of pain in my upper arm. It scares me, and that’s why I looked it up on this site. Is it ever going to stop, what is going on, and how did this happen???
penny
New Brunswick
I have written in once before ( October 31, 2016 ). It is nearly 2 months later, and although I thought the pain was easing up ,it now feels just like it did before. I can’t, for the life of me, figure out what the hell is going on. AndI don’t know for how much longer it will hurt soberly to, open a door, lift a cup of coffee, put on or take off a shirt–anything involving moving that arm. Is there anything that can be done to help with the pain? I can’t even do a sit-up because putting my arm behind my head is impossible .
Jim
NC
Had a flu shot yesterday. Felt some discomfort at the time of the injection, but I’ve had that sensation with past flu shots. No immediate follow-up pain, but last night I noticed significant upper arm pain when moving my arm, and the pain woke me up during the night. It was a strong ache, the worst pain from a shot I’ve ever had, flu or otherwise. It’s still sore today, aches just sitting, and more so with movement. I’ve had flu shots every year for over a decade and never had this reaction. Hoping it resolves in a day or two, but the comments here are not encouraging.
Susan
UK
I too still have sore upper arm many weeks after flu jab this year. Have had flu jab for many years with no adverse effect before. I had the flu really badly one year when I had decided not to have the jab, but not sure I want this discomfort again. It is not as bad as some people describing, but there is an aching lump at top of arm. I guess I’m fortunate that it isn’t in my actual shoulder.
CJ
Arkansas
I had my flu shot administered at my local pharmacy in October. When the shot was injected, it didn’t feel good, which I just dismissed thinking that I was tensed up. So I tried to relax.
This is December and my arm is still sore. Not in the joints, in the fatty part of my right arm. IB helps some. I made an appointment with the doctor to see what could be the problem. The receptionist had never heard of anyone having soreness after two months of getting a flu shot. I didn’t know either till I started googling my problem and read so many people have had issues with vaccines. Whatever is the problem. I want to find something that can help the soreness. It does effect my ability to do any kind of work.
Tina
Laguna niguel, CA
This is a serious problem. I am in such pain. Going to a PT tomorrow. I told the Costco pharmacist the shot seemed so high. Before I left the parking lot my arm, shoulder, forearm, hand and fingers hurt like mad. I called the pharmacy and told them. They checked on me a couple of times, but now I am faced with no cure available. I can’t sleep, move my arm, lift, I’m very upset about this unnecessary result that may effect the rest of my life.
Sarah
pennsylvania
I am a senior and had my high dose flu vaccination at my doctor’s office exactly one month ago. It was given in the same place (left deltoid) by the same person who has given me flu shots for at least 6 years with no problems in the past except local soreness for several days. I was told I could continue with taking exercise classes, and I did 3 days later. During class I noticed instant soreness in my hamstrings when doing squats which had never happened before. I had to back off on exercising for at least a week. My left deltoid is still sore, but not as bad. I am fortunate to have good range of motion in my shoulder but it is not pain free. In this case I can find no fault with the injection technique, but I suspect that the vaccine had set up an undesirable inflammatory reaction that also affected muscles elsewhere in my body. Now I am reluctant to get any intramuscular vaccine.
Jeannie
Connecticut
My job offers annual flu shots, and a nurse comes to give the injections. I’ve been getting a flu shot for probably 20 years. This time it was injected very high up my arm, and the pain I felt was similar to what it feels like when you have a pinched nerve. The pain didn’t last. It was only as the needle was being injected. I had the regular soreness and lump at the site that lessened within 24-48 hrs. However it’s been a month, and I’m experiencing muscle pain around that injection site. It’s not tender to the touch but I have limited range of motion. The pain can be mild to severe. I’m really glad I found this site because I thought I was crazy.
Ms Kjerstia Schilinski
NY
I had my flu shot Nov. 30, 2016. I have not been able to sleep because of the extreme pain. I think the shot was put to close to shoulder. I tried cold pack the first night, hot pack the second and last night I tried both. No relief. I have taken Tylenol and benadryl. I have had a flu shot every year and this has never happened before.
Karen
Pennsylvania
My son and I got our flu shots Tuesday, 11-29-2016. When the nurse injected my son, it bled, and there was an instant bruise at the injection sight. Since thst day, He has had increasing pain in his shoulder that he describes as being constantly stung by a bee, over and over… called my doc to get it on record and am keeping an eye on it. I will take him in on Monday if it’s not better by then.
Lesia B
Dallas, TX
I had a flu shot September 2016. My arm started hurting about a week later and hasn’t stopped. The muscle in my arm is very sore and aches. I could hardly move my arm upward. I can’t sleep on my side where injection was given. I have seen an orthopedic doctor and he seems to think it was from the flu shot. I’ve spoke to a PT and they said they have heard of other stories just like mine. Makes me never want to get the flu shot again. Wondering if this will ever go away. So frustrating.
Gail
I got a flu shot at CVS the beginning of Oct. and I still have pain from the shot. The pain and range of movement of my shoulder, is making it hard to help take care of my twin grandchildren, who are 14 months old. The pain also keeps me up at night.
CAROL
jacksonville fl
i had the flu shot last sunday and while the shot didnt hurt it sure did afterwards. my arm felt swollen at the site and hurt which is normal however since the past two days i s not been able to raise my arm above my head or cetain ways like sideways its very painful .my friend told me her arm hurt a very similar way! ill be searchig for the fda andcdc comments for a complaint and compensation for sure!
Paula
Illinois
Had a flu shot yesterday. Last night, woke with a painful upper arm. Had flu shots in the past, had no problem. Now, after tomorrow I’ll know it’s from flu shot. Took tylenol all it did put me to sleep. I forgot to mention headache too….
Joanne D
Evanston, IL
Got a flu shot 11/22/16 at Sam’s Club Pharmacy. The injection seemed to be placed higher than I am used to. I typically have no problem with shots, but this hurt a LOT going in, almost like an electric shot; made me flinch and made my muscle twitch as it was going in. Almost like it hit bone or a nerve. That evening, my shoulder was quite tender; also had some tingling near the nerve in my elbow. Two days later and it’s definitely more sore…sore to touch, sore to lift and rotate my shoulder, sore to sleep on. I’m 69. Have never had this kind of problem before.
penny
saint john n.b
I have been getting the flu shots for many years now and have NEVER had any problems with it until now . I went in with my daughter on October 31 2016 and she got her’s first ( no problems ) then I had mine , and although I had not problems on site for 2 -3 days no pain , nothing , then It started , from my shoulder to my elbow is the worst pain and I can withstand quite a bit of pain , I then called my Doctor and said its been 2 weeks , this is still unbearable can’t lift anything even writing this is hurt’s like hell !! she gave me a prescription for pain relieve and a good one but IT’S not coming close to helping , I can’t sleep on my left side and throughout the day and even more so at night my arm is killing me , but the morning is even worse , I can’t lift my arm 5 inches without screaming in pain , putting on or taking off clothes is horrible , I just want it to stop . And nothing seems to help , I can honestly say it is so frustrating and I want to rip off my arm the pain is so bad .
Tina King
NC
I just got the shot 4 days ago and this time they gave it to ke high up on my left arm. I am up.writing this at 0700 hrs because the pain is so severe I can’t sleep. I have never experienced this before!! I would like to know if anyone knows who to contact to get help with this situation both medical and legal, ty.
Chris
Spokane Valley, WA
I received a flu vaccine shot just over two weeks ago at my local pharmacy. When given the injection, I thought it was placed a little higher than I have had in the past, but I am no expert – I expected the technician to be so. I have received a flu shot every year for eight years and never had any problems, other than shoulder discomfort for a day or two. This time it is different, chronic pain, affecting sleep.
I was doing research on flu shot should pain and was hoping to be reassured the pain would go away, just takes time, maybe a couple weeks. What I have uncovered is not what I expected to find. I will seek additional medical treatment for the pain and needless to say, never get a flu vaccine shot again.
Jp
So, I got my flu shot at work on Oct. 28, 2016 my arm/shoulder was sore for a day or two, but after a week my arm and shoulder remain sore., got increasingly sore and painful, limited range of motion and hard to sleep at night due to horrible pain at night.
Still to present day my arm aches, pain in my upper shoulder when ever I move it, can’t reach up over my head or behind my back without a catching pain, radiating pain down my arm at times, nights are the worst. I’m on light duty at work, but that has not helped anything, walking around seems to irritate my arm; it feels tight, swollen, aching, my fingers tingle.
The doctor I’m seeing seems to be stumped. He thinks it may have been a reaction to the flu shot. I had an ultrasound done to make sure there was no fluid building up in my shoulder and there is not. This is so frustrating. There is something seriously wrong with my shoulder/arm, but no one seems to know.
Diane
Mechanicsville va
Received flu shot first of September at my CVS.Now mid November continue to have pain at injection site. Unable to sleep on side. Pain with overhead reaching.
Marci
Florida
I got the flu shot last year and just few weeks ago again, due to job requirements. Both times I have had the same symptoms, pain radiating all the way down my arm starting at the injection sight. I don’t believe it’s caused by the injection itself. I really believe it’s the vaccine. The pain has gotten so bad at night I can’t even sleep at times. This is not worth it to me, I won’t be getting the flu shot anymore.
Trina marie
NY
I had a flu shot a week ago 11/3/16 no pain when I got it now 1 week later I can’t move my arm away from my body without pain. I am not sleeping well due to pain. I am seeing an orthopedist this week. I am getting a massage and am icing it often and taking Motrin. I work in a hospital and you are mandated to get the flu shot or wear a mask. I guess next year I will have to wear that annoying mask.
Kathy
Michigan
As many others on this site, I have been receiving flu vaccines for many years. It is not unusual for me to have arm soreness for as much as a week following the shot but this year has been different. It has been two weeks since I went to a local pharmacy for the vaccine.
As in most of the comments, I was surprised at how high the injection was but didn’t question it. I now have limited range of motion of my arm and have been awakened every night with my entire arm aching. Will be seeing my doctor tomorrow to see what kind of answers I can get.
Karen
I went to doctor who said it was likely deltoid damage and I have lost some strentgh in my arm. May have to have physical therapy. This damage is not going away because next will be the onset on arthritis. This is because of a high dose flu vaccination.
Geri
NJ
I’m a Personal Trainer. This time each year, one or more of our clients will complain of upper arm/shoulder pain or soreness.
The first question I’ll ask is “Have you recently gotten a flu shot?”
For some, the pain doesn’t show up until weeks or even months later.
If I gently palpate the upper arm, most times I’ll find tender lump. I’ve found that firm pressure applied on the tender spot for about 45 seconds and followed by massaging the area helps to break it up. You may need to repeat this a few times. A ROCKTAPE application also is helpful.
Gary
Temple, TX
At least I know I wasn’t crazy! Since last year Fall 2015 I had my flu shot at CVS. A few days later and my upper arm was still in pain. Weeks passed and same pain. When I had a routine checkup with one of my doctors I told her about it. Just routine. Later I had a visit with my Family Practice doctor and told her that the pain was there months after the shot. I am now a year past and the pain in my shoulder is excruciating at times. At other times it’s a continual pain but one that I have learned to tolerate. I will use my right hand to massage the arm and/or try to raise it above my head while also massaging and putting pressure on it to try and relieve the pain. I am planning to get my flu shot this week Nov. 11 and plan to tell the doctor to give it in my right arm. I’m unsure what might happen if I get shot in the same arm again.
Mary
Newark ny
I’m in the same boat I received my annual flu shot in three beginning of October 2016 can’t raise my arm or sleep on that side and the pain is unbearable they told me to give it another week or so
Naomi
Bellevue
I got my flu shot at Costco four weeks ago. Immediately it hurt like she had hit a bone. She told me it was fault because I flinched. However it still aches to raise it or sleep on. This is not normal nor does it make me want to get another shot next year!
Larbo
central, la
Never had any symptoms or side effects from any previous flu shots that I have taken before. However, this year, I received the Quad flu shot on 11/03/2016 and four days later I can barely lift my arm without excruciating pain and soreness. I am just hoping that the pain with movement and soreness in my arm will go away soon, as it is very discomforting and it is causing me concern and stress. I don’t know why this year is any different from all the other years. My wife received the same Quad flu shot at the same time from the same nurse at the same location on the same day and thankfully she is doing fine. I am praying that the pain and movement restriction will soon leave my arm.
Bonnie
Goodsoil Sask.
Got my flu shot November 3, 2016. My arm is still very sore itchy and burning. It is making it hard to move as well as sleep. If it doesn’t improve soon I will have to make an appointment to see my doctor as I have never experienced anything like this I’m getting the flu shot before
Beverly D. Schick
OH
I too, like many other, get the flu shot every year because I do not want to catch the flu. This past September I saw my doctor whike feeling under the weather and was asked if I would like to have e my annual flu shot? Sure I said. That was the worst choice I could make that day. It is now almost two months since my vaccination and I have had excruciating pain in my shoulder. I go to the chiropractor regularly and mentioned to him that my shoulder hadn’t been right ever since my flu shot and that I could not raise it very high nor sleep on my left side without waking in pain. He tried to manipulate my shoulder a little to see if that would help alleviate the pain, but that did not work and said “I can definitely tell.there is inflammation in your shoulder, I can feel it!” “My guess is the nurse got to close to your nerve.” Almost a month later still with shoulder pain I had to visit my doctor again for an unrelated issue but while going through my medical.history I mentioned to her that my shoulder was still sore since my vaccination and it was difficult to raise it and or sleep on my left side. Apparently she didn’t seem to be worried my concern or she was more worried about why I was there to see her initially , but like my chiropractor stated very non-chalantly “hmm sounds like maybe the nurse got to close to the nerve!” Does any one else see an issue with her statement? I couldn’t belive she wasn’t more curious as to why a month after my flu vaccination my shoulder was still.bothering me? Nevertheless, I requested to be seen by a physical therapist who believes I am suffering from thoracic shock syndrome (TOS) as well as burcitis! It has been two weeks since therapy began but it has been a painful struggle.
Kim r
Orlando fl
Right shoulder hurts. Flu shot given two weeks ago. Last year had a common cold still but not this year yet. Do I call a nurse and ask her about it? Shoulder still hurts. Need to know ASAP.
Kim rundquist
Orlando fl
Had flu shot on a friday.at first it was ok.the next weel had to get it looked at at employee health.it was sore.nov fifth its still sore mildly swollen .wonder if they injected it right.
Big V
Bangkok, Thailand.
I started getting sick around mid October 2014, so after a few days, I decided to go to a clinic nearby to get a check up. The doctor there decided to give me an flu shot. I requested him to inject my left shoulder. One of the worst decisions I’ve made. And I still came down with the Influenza B flu. Since that day I’ve been feeling pain in my left shoulder. It feels like someone stabs me there, and the pain kept on coming and going. It got so bad that all the muscles in my arm and shoulder had shrunk due to limited movement. It was starting to affect and strain my neck and my back, as well as having some numbness in my fingers. I consulted maybe around 4 different doctors in different departments. They did many tests on me: Ultrasound, X-Ray, EMG, and various others. One said that there could be a fragment of the injection needle still stuck inside, or some sort of sand or hard particle. Obviously that was ruled out after the tests. One said it could be connective tissue membrane, but what sort of connective tissue problem would last over 2 weeks? No one knows. One said that since it got so bad, maybe I should get a blood test, MRI and CT scan to make sure it’s not any sort of infection, disease or cancer. I didn’t think that would be too helpful so the last one recommended I go for physiotherapy, which I did. And when I was doing the therapy, it felt great, like a really good massage that didn’t make it hurt much and actually numbed my shoulder for a few hours. But then I started feeling that after those few hours, it would come back, more painful than ever. So I stopped going to doctors altogether and started taking various vitamins.
After some time, these “stab” feelings became less frequent. But they would come back whenever I would start to lift heavy things, or do anything intense with my arm (e.g. play rugby, which I play in school). This is 2 years later, and I still feel it, up my arm and down my back, same old pain, makes it difficult to move and type quickly. I believe this is a SIRVA issue and have no idea whatsoever about what to do about it.
Denise M
Jacksonville, FL
I got my flu shot at Target Pharmacy on 10/22/16. I had on long sleeves, so I was asked to pull the neck of my blouse down to expose my shoulder and deltoid. The shot hurt so bad and burned for several minutes. I have had horrible shoulder and arm pain ever since.
I think it was a result of giving the injection too high on my arm. I called the pharmacist 10/25 and told him of my misery. He said it was rare to go on this long but to take tylenol and apply heat. I have been doing this and it is not getting better. I have improved movement but my arm muscle and shoulder is painful, especially when trying to sleep. It has now been almost 2 weeks since the injection. I have put off seeing my doctor because I have an appt. with her in a few days. We’ll see…
judy
wisconsin
I had a flu shot in the dr. office. one day later, I had severe pain in the arm and shoulder. It was excruciating and limited my range of motion and ability to get dressed. I had some relief from Aleve but hate to take this regularly. It is now 9 days later better but still aches.
Mike
Ohio
Have been getting flu shot for many years with no problems, but a few years ago recieved it at Rite Aid and did notice that it was injected high on my shoulder and sure enough it was my shoulder was sore for quite some time well I made sure I got a different person to give it to me the next year and it was fine.
I made sure I got him again this year but noticed he went high on my shoulder and sure enough it’s been sore for over two weeks and still is, makes me mad and will tell him so when I go back to Rite Aid.
Got the shot for the wife and I at the same time. She’s ok that was on October the eighteenth and hope it goes away as it’s a real pain to deal with this don’t know if I will get it again or not but maybe need to give it to my self. Really disappointed that this happened twice.
Bev
Calgary
I also have excruciating pain in my arm from a flu shot that was administered high on my shoulder. I have never had this before from a flu shot. It is getting better by forcing movement in my arm. I am taking Tylenol for pain and using a heating pad. I have been gritting my teeth and forcing my arm to move and this help a lot. It is now two days since the flu shot and my arm is improving.
sarai
OH
October 19, 2016 is the first time I’ve ever had a flu shot due to asthma issues that I’ve just been experiencing late in life. I purposely had them do it in my right arm to avoid any inhibiting pain in my dominant arm. They said it would only last a couple days at most and would be fine. The shot was considerably high. On the very top of my shoulder. Started experiencing pain that evening with a lot of the symptoms mentioned here – unable to lift my arm very well without horrible pain and can’t sleep on my right side, waking up from the pain if I do. My entire arm hurts from top to fingertips. Daily tasks are becoming strenuous. I went online to see if this was normal and found this forum. Glad I did as I don’t feel like I’m being a hypochondriac! I’ve contacted my doctor seeking advice of in regards to these ongoing side effects. Was hoping it would subside but it hasn’t even let up and only seem to get worse if anything. I don’t want to be taking pain relievers on a daily basis. Now I’m concerned it could be SIRVA and will certainly fill out a form if it persists.
Lisa
West Virginia
My situation is similar to all of these. I have gotten a flu shot every year for many years. Rite Aid came in to our school to give free shots to teachers and staff. I got mine two weeks and two days ago. My arm hurt within an hour of getting my shot. Two days ago, I took Excedrin to help with the pain. Yesterday, it was a lot worse. I took Motrin every 4-6 hours for the pain. I woke up in the middle of the night with excruciating pain. I have very limited mobility and the pain is awful. The Motrin helps some, but doesn’t relieve all of the pain. I can’t even do my daily taskswithout assistance. I need help dressing and undressing. I can’t wash my hair. How long is this going to last??? I would rather have the flu than deal with this painful arm.
Lynn
Redding ca
Hi I just read everyone’s story about the flu shot I got mine in sept 2016 and it hurt like hell when the pharmacist gave it to me she put it very high on my arm my arm started throbbing within a few min the pain is so bad I can’t move my arm can’t sleep on it it still hurts today bad oct 28 2016 I don’t know what to do I guess I will call my doctor Monday to see what he says my thoughts are that she gave it to high I will never get a flu shot at Walgreens again they to me are not trained how to give a flu shot I’m so angry about this !
Stefanie Myrthil
FL
I got my flu shot yesterday shortly after I sarted feeling massive pain like if I got shot by a gun in my left arm. It was really hard to sleep or put on cloththen take them off. I can’t streach my arm out cause the pain hurts too much. Never have I had the experience before. So I’m thinking “did they give me the wrong shots??” Cause they didn’t look like they knew what they was doing. Which made me nervous. I googled to see what was the problem. I’m thinking I’m the only one who might be going through this. But many is going through what I’m going through. It’s really irritating me cause I try to sleep on my left side. But the pain stops me. I can only sleep on my back, my right side, or my stomatch. Can I call them and complain?
Stefanie Myrthil
FL
I got my flu shit yesterday shortly after I sarted feeling massive pain like if I got shot by a gun in my left arm. It was really hard to sleep or put on cloththen take them off. I can’t streach my arm out cause the pain hurts too much. Never have I had the experience before. So I’m thinking “did they give me the wrong shots??” Cause they didn’t look like they knew what they was doing. Which made me nervous. I googled to see what was the problem. I’m thinking I’m the only one who might be going through this. But many is going through what I’m going through. It’s really irritating me cause I try to ssleep on my left side. But the pain stops me. I can only sleep on my back, my right side, or my stomatch. Can I call them and complain?
Afton W.
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
I figured I was being overly sensitive but my shot hurt so bad. I’d never had a vaccine really hurt like this flu shot. I told the nurse and she dismissed me. It’s got progressively worse. I was unable to sleep because any time I turned and my arm was touched I gasped in pain. It feels like muscle strain or like how I would imagine. Ring punched hard in the arm. I hurt from my shoulder to middle of my upper arm. I hurt up my shoulder into the bottom of my neck. It actually scared me when the injection hurt so much. It didn’t seem like a normal reaction. I expected tenderness but this is constant pain radiating into my shoulder. I really hope this subsides soon. It scares me that this could actually keep hurting and limit my movement.
Virginia
Illinois
I have taken the flu shot for years at my workplace and never had a problem. This year I got it again, about 2 weeks ago now, and my shoulder still hurts and is getting worse, not better. I have tried exercises, they don’t help. Now, I can’t raise my arm, I have difficulty putting on and taking off my clothes. I don’t know what else to do.
Julie
NC
I had my shot October 4th after my physical at my physician’s office. I noticed it felt sore that evening, but was not alarmed. It hurts to sleep on that side or raise my arm. I’ve never had a problem from a flu shot before and have received them at this office for the last 4 years.
Jean
North Carolina
I had the flu shot yesterday. When I removed the bandage I noticed that it was unusually high on my arm. When I woke up today, I had terrible pain in the shoulder and arm. I cannot lift my arm past my shoulder in any direction. I had a shoulder replacement on the other arm a year ago due to numerous rotator cuff and bicep issues. What I am experiencing is like the pain and restricted movement associated with rotator cuff tendon tears. But, it came on so suddenly that I began to think it might be related to the shot. I hope that it will pass, but it definitely sounds like SIRVA.
Jewels
Billings MT
The flu shot I got this year was given to me much higher on my arm and I was not told to relax my arm as I am usually told before the shot. The shot usually is nothing as far as pain. This year it was very painful when the shot was given and while the serum was going in my arm. First time, I have felt any pain during a flu shot.
My right shoulder now and arm is very painful feels like it’s sprained and the pain also goes into my neck. I did not get the flu shot last year and I am now wishing I had not done it this year. I just got my left shoulder back from being out of commission for a couple of years. Now since the shot my right shoulder is killing me too. I feel that the shot was given to me in an area that was too high on my arm and either hit a nerve or damaged the tendon and it is extremely painful 2 weeks later.
Lori
Texas
DITTO!!! I got my flu shot at work around Sept. 25, 2016. The school had Walgreens come do them for free for teachers. The shot itself didn’t hurt. The soreness started the next day and for a couple of days I joked and whined that my shoulder had the flu.
It is now October 25, and I have limited range of motion and the pain is radiating into my neck and shoulder blade and down my arm. I can’t sleep on my left side and the pain in my neck is giving me headaches. I will never get another flu shot. I have survived many years teaching and being exposed to the flu. I just want my arm back!!!
Brenda
Tri-Cities, WA
I got a flu shot last Friday in Right shoulder. Worse pain I’ve ever experienced since getting flu shots for years. My shoulder is so achy, I can’t lift anything or drive using right arm. Used heating pad, hot showers, ice, Tylenol, Aleve, etc. no relief from anything I’ve tried. What’s a body to do?
Michael
Kansas City
When I got the Flu shot this year, I had pain at the injection site for 3 days after the shot and then it subsided so I thought everything was returning to normal. But I woke up this morning (10 days after the shot) and my arm hurts at the same site where I had the shot. It feels exactly like it did the day after I got the shot. And it hurts to move my arm above my shoulder.
Christine
Washington State
I have gotten the flu shot for years with no pain or incident. Yesterday I got this years shot and no,pain from the needle, but I could feel the serum going into my arm/ shoulder area. ( very weird sensation mind you) She gave me the shot so high on my arm it’s almost to the shoulder. My arm had muscle spasams for the next 15-20 minutes. I am now in so much pain I cannot use my left arm at all. It kept me up all night and I cannot raise it up at all. I cannot even touch my shoulder and it hurts all the way up through my shoulder to my neck and chest. I have taken some aleve to help with the pain…what else can I do….I am not a pansy I have always had a supe high pain tolerance but this is kicking me in the butt.
Tammy
Chapel Hill, NC
This forum absolutely confirms what I have been believing since receiving my flu shot over 10 days ago. I have been getting flu shots every year for the last 13 years without any problems at all soreness for a day or two and then everything was fine.
This year at my primary care office the doctor was not available and some other young lady I am not even sure if she is a nurse admistered the shot, jabbed me in the arm while I sat in a chair what appears to be an unusually high position and after 20 days my arm is in excruciating pain particularly when I try and lift it, my range of motion is extremely limited can barely lift it and sleeping at night is just awful when I try to sleep on the shoulder of the injection I am in great pain or when I try to roll over onto that side I am awaken with extreme pain!
This is just awful and I have been stating since the third day post injections “I believe something was done wrong because this definitely does not feel right ” I really need to look into this SIRVA theory because this is impacting my life as this is my dominant side my right and I am right handed. Funny thing is I am recovering/healing from a double fractured fibula for the last 11 weeks and I have never felt pain as severe as this pain with my shoulder .
Kathy
Altoona, PA
I really was hoping NOT to find this information. Received my flu vaccine 1 month ago, Oct 26, 2016. (no choice – required for work). In the past receiving the vaccine was not a big issue, just a slightly sore arm for a day. This year was different. The actual injection seemed painful. I remarked to the nurse who gave it that it felt like 20 mL fluid was just forced into my arm – really hurt. She brushed off my comment. Several days later my arm still hurt (strange). One week later – still hurt, even more. Pain radiates up through shoulder and down arm at times, especially with use and also noticed through the night. Cramps/spasm/charlie horse noticed upon wakening, if I’m not careful of movement. Limited range of motion, increased pain with use. Affecting my motivation/ability to complete my normal daily activities. Why does my arm hurt so much from a simple flu vaccine? I’ve been waiting patiently for this pain to subside. There was no bruising, no swelling, no redness – so I’ve figured the pain is bound to subside soon. But it hasn’t. Now I’m fearful that it may not.
Wanda
I got a flu shot on Oct 19 2016 and 2 days later my arm is so sore up in my chest area what should I do
Shirley B
Akron IN
I had my Flu shot on October 4,2016 at my Doctors office, I thought when the nurse gave it to me I had never had one that high on my shoulder I felt the medicine sting. On my way home my shoulder hurt all the way down to my fingers. It hurt like that for a couple of days. I cannot sleep on my right side ( the arm that got the shot) Day time seems ok it is when I go to bed at night that it still hurts. I have always gotten my Flu shot and never any problems til this year.
IS
Florida
I have been getting flu shots for a few years now and this is the first time that I felt like my shoulder was bruised the day after the shot. It has been 3 weeks now and cannot sleep at night because the pain wakes me up. The really bad thing about all this is that I have a bad right shoulder so I always slept on my left side, now I can’t sleep on either side. Hearing all these stories is so discouraging that the pain lasts so long. PLEASE someone write something that maybe after a few months or a year the pain goes away! OR that there is a treatment for it.
Heidi
North Dakota
Received a flu shot through employers flu blitz October 5, 2016. During administration of the vaccine student nurse struggled to administer the shot – could see her straining to push the syringe. At the same time, I could feel pressure in my arm. I probably should have stopped her but didn’t.
That night I woke to my arm in severe pain and the next day was unable to move my arm at all. The next day I was able to move my arm again but movement was limited. And there was still shoulder pain – mostly in the joint.
It’s now almost two weeks since the shot and I still have limited movement and pain. After visits to two different doctors, I feel like I’m getting the same story, “The flu shot didn’t do that”. Really? Then why is it that it’s shoulder pain only in the shoulder I received the shot?
I’ll give it another week, see what happens and if it doesn’t improve then I’ll be seeing a third Doctor. A coworker had a similar situation and required surgery – so hope mine doesn’t go that far. But it would be nice to speak with someone who believes that somethings been screwed up due to the shot. I’ll NEVER again get a flu shot.
Pam
Illinois
I had a flu shot last yr in October. For the first time ever, my arm hurt for months and is still sore when I press on the injection sight. I also had one of the worst flu the following December! I’m scheduled to have the shot today. I’m hesitating because of the pain that I experienced.
Michael
AZ
After 2 days getting a flu shot, my left arm at the injection point aches similar to a deep bruise or infected cut.
Cindy
CA
My husband and went to our pharmacy for our flu shot (our third year) three weeks ago she was very gentle didn’t hurt at all,My husband has had no problems whatsoever but me on the other hand about three hrs later I felt like I just got a bad shot,in pain but not too bad,figured it would go away but just kept getting worse by bed time a lot of pain could not sleep on that side which is my primary side,still trying to stay on the bright side of things thinking it will go away maybe if I lightly rub it,move my arm around a bit ect it would help,it has not,it feels like my whole arm is being affected,I’ve considered going to the pharmacy to let her know but I don’t want her to feel she did something wrong,I don’t believe she did,that’s why I googled and ended up here
Debra P.
Los Angeles ca.
I got a flu shot 10 days ago and I can not raise my arm . This ever go away? Debby P
Neda
Idaho
I had the flu shot 2 years ago and will never get one again. I left my comments back then. All I’m going to say now is I don’t trust the FDA and anything they approve shouldn’t be trusted. My arm hurt so bad for almost a year.
It’s funny how it’s blamed on the Drs, pharmacists, and nurses. They already give us medication that causes other horrible side effects. I’m a perfect example of that. Why should we trust them with what they’re shooting into our arms. F them people
CMR
Florida
I’m having the exact side effects mentioned by numerous people.. It has been a year since my flu shot and the pain on my left shoulder does not subside. It’s worst at night and I have limited range of motion. Sometimes it’s dull and than it’s stabbing shooting pain down my left arm. I refuse to have a flu shot this year due to the limited use of the left arm today. Is that why I was asked if I’m right or left handed before administering the injection. No flu like symptoms, but is this long term pain worth it? NO!
Ephrem
IL
I want to join the chorus of individuals who are experiencing shoulder pain after receiving a flu shot. Mine was administered at the local Walgreens. I noticed the position of the shot is very high up on the arm, almost at the top. Could the location of the shot, possibly in a joint cause the constant discomfort. Forgive me if someone already broached this topic. I did not read all entries, but thought this was worth noting.
Tara W.
Fort Collins , CO
Just had my flu shot 10-7-16. Never have had any problems and I am now in pain all over my body. I have kidney stones and my kidneys hurt my legs, knee, back, everything!! I feel like I’m getting really sick and have a 101.5 temperature. But more than anything where I got the shot it hurts so bad. It’s burning and throbbing and aching and it goes through my right shoulder, up my neck and down the arm. I don’t know why the girl in my doctors office would have went for my right arm. I didnt think it would be a problem or painful . This is insane the pain I’m feeling, and I pray it goes away because I cannot live with this pain and burning.
Michele
Michigan
I just want everyone to know what getting the flu can do to you. In May, I lost my husband due to H1N1. He was the healthiest man I know. He had, literally, never missed a day of work.
He came down with the flu on Tuesday and by Friday he was in respiratory failure. He didn’t smoke, exercised every day, ate healthier than anyone I know, and had the energy of someone half his age. He spent 1 week in the local hospital on a ventilator and was transferred to the University of Michigan, where he spent 4 weeks.
The day the doctor told us there was nothing left that they could do for him was the hardest day the kids and I had ever faced. He went from 215 lbs to 162 lbs in 5 weeks.
Prior to this experience, we thought that if we got the flu, sure it might mean we’d be uncomfortable, or even miserable for a couple of days. We didn’t know it could kill a healthy person. I never, ever thought it could take him. The very strongest man I know.
The specialist at U of M told us the H1N1 likes healthy people. When H1N1 goes into acute respiratory failure, your body begins to form blood clots that can go to your organs, and, unfortunately to your brain. He had a severe right brain stroke. To see our daughter, who is a speech pathologist, try to work with him every day to see, and hope, and pray, for any sign of improvement was a heartbreak I wouldn’t wish for anyone, ever.
As my neighbor said upon hearing he has passed, it is like we lost Superman. So please, please get your flu shot. It is the mission the kids and I feel we are left to carry out.
Amy
minneapolsi mn
I got my flu shot from a pharmacy on 10/1. I get one every year, for years on end. This year, the injection site was swollen and painful for 3 days. On the 4th day the swelling went down, but now I have had shooting pains in the exact spot I was injected. My shoulder is sore as well. This has never happened to me before.
I felt the pharmacist was not proficient in administering the shots – especially since she admitted she had never used retractable needles until the day before, so she felt she had to let me know “the needle will retract, so don’t be scared”. So unsure if it was just bad technique or something a bit more serious.
Margaret
Louisiana
I had a flu shot two and a half weeks ago. My arm is still sore. The shot was given pretty high on the arm. I’ve never had this high before. My wrist also feels sore and weak when I lift things. I’ve been getting flu shots for years now and have never experienced soreness and weakness like this before.
Melissa
TX
I received my flu shot on Sunday, September 18, 2016, administered by a pharmacist at my local Walgreens. I did not feel any pain while given the shot, but remember feeling/hearing a “pop” noise from the injection that I thought was odd. Within an hour afterwards, my arm was severely sore and throbbing, so I took some ibuprofen and laid down. I was unable to lay on my side that I had the injection on. Since that day (3 weeks later), I cannot lift my arm without wincing in pain, nor can I do a full range of motion without pain.
It is sore to lay on my side and the pain is particularly worse in the morning after I wake up. I have had a flu injection every year, as well as numerous other injections in my life, and have never had a lasting effect such as this. I worry that the pain will get worse over time and that I will steadily lose my full range of motion. In reading this article, my injection site was pretty high up on my arm and to this day, it remains bruised. I am thinking it may be time to go see my doctor about this.
Mindy
Indiana
I got my annual flu shot on September 16, and within a few hours I had an anormal amount of pain and started to take Aleve. It was administered high close to my shoulder, which is different than in past years.
It is now October 5 and I still have pain and loss of range of motion in my shoulder. I am taking Naprosen for arthritis and that isn’t even helping. I couldn’t figure out how it could be related until I started doing some research. Hence my post. Now I’m convinced I need to call my doctor. Thanks for your stories.
Katrinia
Texas
I got my flu shot yesterday, September 29, 2016. I woke up to HORRIBLE pain in my left arm/shoulder. This is my first flu shot in over 20 years. I got the shot because I got the flu from my husband 4 days after we got married (thanks babe LOL) and my boss gave me a really hard time because I had NOT gotten a flu shot. I got the shot about 7 pm and by 2 am I was feeling the pain.
It is in the shoulder joint and goes all the way down to my wrist. I went to work today even with the pain but this SUCKS. I take daily pain meds due to a back fracture and it is not even touching the pain in my shoulder. The pharmacist injected me high up on the arm and I barely felt the shot. However, the pain is incredible. My range of motion is limited and ANY movement of my left arm is painful. The worst part is that I AM LEFT HANDED. I am gonna monitor the situation over the next few days and speak to the pharmacist Monday if there is no improvement.
Keisha B
NC
I’ve had flu shots over the years and never had a flu shot to hurt like the flu shot I got this year in my right arm, and now my right shoulder is sore from it now.
Linda
Mesa, AZ
I am reading this because I, too, had a flu shot approximately 4 weeks ago in my left upper arm. I have a difficult time raising my shoulder or stretching it out. I had taken ibuprofen, placed ice and moved my arm around to get the blood circulation going. However it is still painful! What should I do?
Lily
U.S.A.
Is this common? I got my flu shot today, however it was higher than it generally is. Now I’m kinda worried because of this.
Lynne
Saraland. Al
Received my flu shot Aug 24.2016 and my arm is so sore I can hardly move it. It has been 4 days and there has been little improvement. I’ve always gotten the shot and never had any pain from it so this is a first for me. There is no sleep to be had and I’m taking pain relievers to help. The shot was given high on the arm and I have been reading about the same problem when the shot was given in this part of the arm.
Wendy Ball
I received a flu shot in 2015. I continue to have pain radiating down my left arm ever since that time. It has been a year. I am supposed to receive another shot this year because I work in a hospital. This is the first time I goggled this situation, and am surprised to see so many people with the same symptoms.
Julia
I recently got an HPV shot. It’s been a month since I got the shot and I still have immense shoulder pain (right where she injected the needle) when I try to lift my arm. I hadn’t gone to the doctor yet because I figured that it will just heal on it’s own. I tried taking anti-inflammatory meds like ibuprofen and aspirin and it hasn’t seemed to be helping too much either :(
Not too sure what going to the doctor will do but that is definitely my next option.
Julia
May I add I am happy that I asked for the shot in my left arm, since I’m right-handed. It is hard to lift things as well as push/pull things with my left arm.
Janice
27215
The last time I got a flu shot, I had to wear a sling on my left arm for about 6 weeks. Right after I got the shot, the arm was so painful I had to take something for the pain. I will not ever get another one.
Donna
fredericksburg, Virginia
I also have severe pain from a flu vaccine that I received one year ago at the local Walgreen’s. I did not want to get the vaccine at all, but it was mandatory for nursing school. I had total numbness immediately after, which I had never felt before. On days like today, the pain is severe and restricts my mobility. It goes all the way down my left arm. We could only opt out if we were allergic. I have still had the flu several times. I know there are different strains. Many suffer, for some people to line their pockets. Never again.
kensgirl
North Bay, Ontario
I’ve received my last flu shot ever! I got my last one in October of 2015. I received it at the pharmacy at Shoppers Drug Mart. I was sitting down and the person who gave me this shot was standing up. I didn’t feel any pain at the time. Then my right shoulder began to ache and pain with such intensity that I thought I would scream in agony. I went to the doctor and he prescribed me some muscle relaxants. Eleven months later I can’t sleep on my right side. I experience severe pain and cannot use my right arm to hold myself up to get out of bed! I’ve done exercises to try to fix this problem but to no avail. Getting dressed is almost impossible, the pain is so severe. I’ve always had a yearly flu shot without these above results. I cannot lift anything without experiencing pain. It is affecting my life as I once knew it. I cannot stir anything when cooking without getting sore and hurting. I don’t know what to do next. I didn’t think receiving a flu shot could cause an injury? Now I know it can and has.
Renee, S.
USA
Received a flu vaccine in 2013. Began experiencing shortness of breath and severe shoulder pain. Pain was so severe that I was treated by an Orthopedic. I received various intensive physical therapies in addition to being diagnosed with all types of lung conditions of an undetermined origin. To sum it up; I have seen every doctor from an Orthopedics, Pulmonologist, Cardiologist, Oncologist, Pulmonologist, ENT, Integrative Medicine, Chiropractor and Endocrinologist; with some improvement, albeit mostly from the Integrative, Chiropractic and Physical Therapy medical community.
I have been unable to work for the past two years and working daily to get better. Any suggestions?
Carolina
NSW
I had a flu shot administered by doctor at the end of April 2016. It felt very strange like a quick stab in the upper arm. I also have weakness and limited range in my left arm. Nearly three months on and no better.
Lori
MO
I too am currently in PT for side effects from my October 2015 flu shot. Can’t sleep on my left side at all still after 10 months and certain movements really hurt, still. So frustrating. Got my shot from a nurse through a work sponsored event. Never again!
Lakisha
DMCnjWFu6
Clear, inoetmarivf, simple. Could I send you some e-hugs?
Jeff
Monroe, WA
I have been receiving flu shots for over 20 years, but in October, 2015, when I received my flu shot, I experienced immediate, severe pain. I wanted to be tough, so I didn’t say anything at the time. That night, I found that I could not sleep in the same position that I normally do because of pain. The next day, I noticed that the bandage over the spot of the injection was high on the shoulder rather than in the lower part of the shoulder where I normally receive shots. When I took the bandage off, I realized that the shot was in the shoulder joint.
Over the next couple of months, I noticed that the range of motion in my shoulder was severely limited due to the pain. I kept thinking that it would go away, but it didn’t. After about 3 months, I went to see my doctor. He recommended that I see a bone and joint specialist. I didn’t want to incur more medical expenses, so I put off visiting the bone and join specialize until April when I realized the pain was not going away. X-rays and an MRI did not reveal anything substantial. The doctor said there was some minor inflammation. He gave me a shot of cortisone and recommended physical therapy. The cortisone shot did not help at all. I did many strengthening and stretching exercises, but my range of motion has only improved by about 10%. It has now been 8 1/2 months since my flu shot, and I still experience severe pain doing the some of the simplest tasks like lifting a jar of peanut butter when my arm is extended at certain angles. Generally speaking, I still have plenty of strength in my shoulder. I can carry and throw large chunks of firewood and have been splitting rounds of firewood 3′ in diameter with an 8 lb sledge hammer and a wedge, but if I move my shoulder in just the wrong way, I have to stop everything and rub my shoulder until the pain goes away.
I can say for sure that I will never get a flu shot again, and if I ever have to receive a shot again, I will make sure the person administering the shot stays away from the deltoid area.
Candace
Florida
I had a flu shot Sept. 9, 2015 and I have experienced pain radiating from the site of the injection, along the top of my shoulder, up my neck along a line up behind the back of my ear. I have had physical therapy, I have had x-rays and an MRI. I have had an injection in my shoulder, then one in my neck. I am scheduled for another injection in my neck and then another more in depth procedure after that. I have contacted an injury lawyer but was told due to other previous neck problems they would have a hard time proving that the problems I am having stem from the flu shot. Yet, I did not have any problems with my neck for a few years prior to this. I am seeing a neurologist who told me he believed the problems I am having stem from the flu shot. I am not sure what I am supposed to do to get someone to believe the problems I am having stem from the flu shot.
Brenda
MD
I received my Flu shot 10/20/2015. I have been plagued with pain ever since. I’m not able to sleep at night and now the pain seems to have moved down my arm further. I have two grandchildren under a year old and find it hard to hold them. I have been to the doctor twice and advised them of my pain. Their solution was to take anti-inflammatory medicine. This helps for a few minutes, but then the pain comes back. How long does this last. I’m going on 8 month of hell.
Carol
Stuart, FL.
I, too, had a flu shot on Nov. 8. 2015. My left arm and shoulder has been very sore and immobile. I’ve been in TP for almost 2 months and still can’t raise my arm up over my head without assistance. I’m so disgusted. I had the shot at Walgreens……Big mistake!!!
Lu
New York
I also am having severe arm pain radiating into the shoulder from a flu shot that I had in October 2015 at Rite Aid Pharmacy. I receive a flu shot every year but this was the first time I had any problems. I have had a shot of Prednisone and have also have been on 2 med packs of Prednisone. It helps but as soon as it wears off the pain is back. Cannot sleep on my left side because of the pain. To top it off, I still got the flu. My next option is to see a Neurologist to rule out nerve damage.
Linda
Kentucky
I got my flu shot done too high 6 months ago didn’t hurt while injected, but started that night and has’t let up – had numerous kinds of xrays, on anti-inflammatory diet – I take turmeric, ginger, black pepper, real cinnamon with organic honey 3x a day, anti-inflammatory gel on it (Voltaren & Diclofenac – used on skin before a doctor does stitches).
I am 50, always in great shape – was a gymnast and a swimmer with NO issues. I work a retail job, with merchandise high on shelves to retrieve and hang heavy leather jackets on waterfall racks off walls. I WAS learning guitar 5 weeks before shot and now selling guitar. I can’t work out at my gym like used to – just leg workouts. I don’t feel like doing my artwork – trained artist out of Chicago.
I was to get a pneumonia shot at same time, but heard cost of $185 and omitted and not sure if pharmacist (at Walmart) was thinking of that shot to be done higher and did flu shot higher instead?? I don’t know, but he is denying he did too high after I called 3 weeks later still in bad pain.
Walmart, at first acted concerned, told me to go to doctor’s have whatever done to get better, pay bills, then man denied speaking with me. I called corporate for a top executive name to put my paperwork in attention to – paid for signed delivery and denied, mailed back, stating NO person there under that name and crossed off their headquarter address, stating wrong, too – NOT the wrong address. I emailed top president/CEO there with NO response…
The flu shot was ironically offered free at my work, but was my day off, so while shopping, got it done there. I never knew suppose to be in a certain area of the arm! The man was nervous, asked me if ever any reactions and never have in past – I have no sick leave, so felt better get one… nobody at work had any problems.
I remember my bandaid very high on my left shoulder. One of my BIGGEST regrets is letting them inject me and never will have another shot again! I didn’t sleep first 6 weeks and still toss and turn. I will NEVER shop at Walmart or Sam’s Club ever again and gave them business 2-3x a week! I filed with vaccine complaint and forwarded all paperwork to an attorney.
It aches ALL the time…worse when raise it – very difficult to get dressed, undressed – rather sleep in shirt at end of day, as I yelped, clench eyes, and tears of pain…WHEN will I be back to normal?? I read people complaining for years after a shot – NOT RIGHT!!!!! I am so very frustrated and want to feel good like I did before this injection…People are NOT trained well enough and their mistakes cause pain 24/7 for many victims. If happened to them, they would be much more careful! Karma that’s all I can say…
David
Warrington
I had my first flu injection last year, catarrh is my problem but I was persuaded to have an injection. My upper arm and shoulder are painful but not all the time, night time is worst as I can’t always get comfortable. I don’t think I have ever had flu and I won’t be having a shot this year even though I am 69.
The pain in my left arm is affecting my golf and it’s been going on for a least 6 months, I am hoping for a Lazarus moment and get back to normal, I am exercising my arm to help but not successfully.
LR
KY
I too have experienced a shoulder injury as a result of a flu vaccine being administered inappropriately. I got a flu shot on November 7, 2014 from an LPN at the VA and the pain and shoulder dysfunction has only increased since that day. She injected the vaccine much too high into my shoulder, it was immediately painful, and when she aspirated the needle I felt nauseated by the wave of pain.
The same symptoms I see others commenting about have plagued me as well, pretty much anything I do with my left arm is painful and you can completely forget doing anything at more than a 50-60 degree angle. It took me months to even get my doctor to refer me to a musculoskeletal specialist. She kept insisting that I must have fallen and just didn’t remember. I am only in my early 30s and last I checked, I didn’t have any kind of dementia…
Six months after the injection I finally get an ultrasound and it was found that I have a greater than 50% tear in my subscapularis tendon, tendonitis, bursitis, and fluid around my biceps tendon. But here’s the fun part, the tendon is NOT torn away from the bone, there is literally just a giant hole in the MIDDLE of my tendon. Right, I just fell and don’t remember. There is no possible physiologic way that I could have fallen to cause that kind of injury.
The best they can tell, the vaccine contents initiated an inflammatory reaction in my joint space and my tendon was eaten away by the reaction. I only got the vaccine because it was a requirement of my graduate school. I am studying to be a Physician Assistant and here I am a year and a half post-injection and I don’t know if I will even be able to finish school.
I don’t sleep because of the pain, I am depressed, I can’t do CPR which pretty much makes me entirely unemployable in my chosen field, and the VA has done absolutely nothing but fight me tooth and nail every step of the way. I developed myofascial pain syndrome as a result of the injury. It became painful for me to breathe at some points.
I am FINALLY in physical therapy now, and my function is improving, but my pain has skyrocketed. I have begged them for an MRI to fully assess the damage and they have absolutely refused. It has been almost a year since my initial ultrasound and they have done no further imaging to assess my progress or lack thereof. I am beyond frustrated and very anxious that I may have just spent the last six years of my life in pursuit of a career that I will not be able to practice. I wish you all the best of luck with your injuries and I encourage you to be advocates for your own care. I refuse to let these doctors push me around…
Mae
WY
I had a Tdap vaccine in August 2015. Started having a stabbing pain shortly after–then almost my whole shoulder, and I could not raise my arm. It felt like it was dislocating, and that there was a balloon inflated inside the joint! Like you, I have a tear in the middle of the tendon, not where the tendon joins to the bone. And I have another tear also. Both are inoperable. I have had 2 MRI’s and an ultrasound.
Physical Therapy helped some- mostly the massage. Electric Stimulation made my nerves or muscles twitch. I tried chiropractic, and ARP wave. I think the ARP wave made me stronger.
And my pain level went down with it. If I overdo it it doing PT it flares. Seems this painful syndrome living inside my shoulder, has a mind of its own, and anything I do to strengthen it causes it to flare. Looks like it may be awhile yet before this gets better. I am taking alpha-lipoic acid. Sometimes it seems to be getting better, then bamm its not.
Marion
Pennsylvania
October of 2015, I received a flu shot from my primary doctor’s office. The nurse was standing and I was seated. After 15 years of getting the flu shot, this is the first time I have had a problem. After six months of having the flu shot, I am still in extreme pain and still can not lift my arm past the injection site. I cannot reach back to put a coat on, a belt on, or reach back to get something in the back floor of my car. I can’t reach higher than the injection site to get a dish off the shelf. I can’t zip up my dress or wipe myself with a towel after a shower without experiencing severe pain. I have had weeks of PT with no positive results. My next step is getting a cortisone shot, but I am afraid to get another shot.
Mimi
Alabama
Wow! I cannot believe how many people are experiencing the same pain I am having. I’ve tried everything I can think of and nothing works. My GP told me it was bursitis after an X-ray . So I went to a reumatologist . She gave me a cortisone injection. I had nerve damage in my hand from that one. I haven’t been able to talk myself into going back again. Did I mention that I had the flu shot in 2014 that caused this? About the only relief I have had is from accupuncture. My chiropractor gave me a treatment Monday and today is Wednesday . So much for that. He also gave me an adjustment. No help there either. Just wanted to share my misery with everyone else.. Sometimes we hear others and it helps our feelings. Not lessening our pain though. I think I’m gonna google Erin Brockovich’s email and ask her what is actually going on with all these injuries.
Sylvia
Mesquite, NV
I had my flu shot 10/28/15. I have been getting an annual shot since 1968 when I got the flu while teaching and suffered miserably; I have never had a problem before with the shot. This shot hurt worse than usual and now over four months later, the arm still hurts and I have limited movement. I went to my doctor who sent me for an X-ray that showed nothing. I then went to a physical therapist who found the bursa to be inflamed. After 6 weeks of exercises, some of the movement has come back but I still have pain when I extend my arm by reaching and it hurts to sleep on that side. I reported it to the government agency and they acknowledged my report. My co pays at this point are over $300.
Brenda
Wichita Falls, TX
After reading everyone’s comments, I now don’t feel alone about being the only one experiencing excruciating pain in my upper left arm from my flu shot that I got in September 2015. It hurts all the time when trying to get dressed or do simple things. The pain is so bad I have to grab my arm & scream out in pain. I have talked to the pharmacist who gave me the shot, my primary doctor & said its probably cause I have very little muscle in my arm due to weight loss from my COPD & even my lung transplant doctor & then the nurse at my rheumatologist which said its “normal” for shot area to hurt for a few months. Which I felt was very unlikely since I never had problems before or heard anyone else have the same pain until now. & they all didn’t think it was from the shot. My primary doctor gave me steroids which only helped for short time. Also besides the pain, my arm & hand shakes a lot. I don’t know where else to turn to & a pain that is never going to go away & get worse. I am ready to just cut my arm off due to the severe pain getting even worse.
Cleopatra
New York
I am so disappointed because of this situation. I am having tremendous pain in my left arm after getting the flue shot in December. I cant use my arm to get up from the bed at night and can hardly lift my arm! And if I did not get the flu shot I couldn’t work! Mandatory!
So now I am partially impaired. I need to be working but I don’t know what to do! I can say this is a very hard situation! I carefully use my left arm because there is ALWAYS pain when I try to lift with or lift up my left arm I use my right arm more! I cringe as I feel the pain but can’t tell my patient I am feeling pain! As it would not be fair the patient since they have their own issues to worry about!
I am here to give care not to get care! So I have to swallow my spit as I keep quiet! God knows I prayed holding my arm and hoping for healing.
giselle
In Nov. 2014, I had a flu shot followed by lower back pain that lasted until January 2015. I did not connected it to a flu shot because I never had a problem before. In Nov. 2015, I again got the annual flu shot. This time my arm hurt and the ache spread to my entire body. My husband got a shot at the same time, and he had the same results. After two weeks of this pain, he got a cold with a cough that persisted. I continued to ache especially in my knees. We compared symptoms, and found that they were the same except for his cough. It is now the end of Feb. 2016, and I still ache, especially my knees. I never had knee problems before. I can’t help but connect this to the flu shot since it began the very day I got the shot. My husband also is still aching. With all the different kinds of flu shots available, I’m not even sure which one I was given. Life is too short to be made miserable trying to avoid the flu. I hate to think about having another flu shot in the fall of this year.
Jean
Charlotte
I am having a similar discomfort in my left arm near my shoulder a month after a flu shot. The pain comes back at different times in a day as a sharp sting with a severe pain that can last 2 or 20 seconds. I thought it was unusual until I did a Web search and saw this posting. This was my very first flu shot at 56, and will be my last due to this lasting sharp pain.
georganna
vallejo, ca.
I had the pneumonia shot in my left arm on Nov.6 2015 and I am still having excruciating pain in my lower muscle and upper top muscle and now runs into the back of my neck. I cannot sleep on it, it hurts really bad when I wake up, most of the time I cannot sleep. It hurts right so bad, from leaning on it, that I could scream. The guy at wal mart did mine up real high like in your 1st story, it did not turn red or swell up but this pain is almost unbearable. Is there something to be done. This is terrible, I cannot put my arm back to put on a jacket, pull up my pants or do my hair without screaming and cussing. I am really in horrible pain, so whsts up? Georganna
Bradley
Ohio
I got my flu shot November 13 2015, I expected my arm would hurt for a couple days. I went back to my doctor he said it was just a coincidence. Now he sent me to a orthopedic surgeon both work for Ohio Health. He said the same thing.
Funny neither mentioned SIRVA. I am now going through physical therapy Which seems to make it worse. Does this ever get better? I have limited movement and a lot of pain. My Co-Pay for this is $3500.00. I think this BS. Never will I get a flu shot again.
Laurence
Blackpool
I had an hepatitis A and tetanus shot (one in each arm, I’m not sure which one was in what arm)given by the nurse at my local doctors surgery . From the day after I have been suffering REAL pain and I have limited mobility in my right arm. The pain appears to be spreading to further parts of my arm including my shoulder. These injections took place 6 weeks ago.
Maybe these symptoms aren’t just restricted to the flu jab. When I get back from South Africa I will be visiting my doctor to find out what is occurring.
Valerie
Blairsville,GA
I was curious about my pain, after 5 months I have pain in my arm when I move it. I knew I have had this pain ever since the shot, when I move my arm a certain way and it didn’t seem normal. Mine also is higher up. I at least know its a real thing. Thanks, I would like to know if it will heal, go away.
Paul
Kingsport,Tennessee
I got my first flu shot several months ago and immediately it began to ache. It still does and when I get up every morning my muscle is already sore and throbbing. This is a real side effect and I feel for the people who have it worse than I do. It’s not crippling for me but who wants an aching arm for months on end? I’ll be having no more flu shots, that’s for sure!
Alyssa
St. Louis
It’s been one month since my flu shot and I still have limited range of motion. I am young and usually very active but these days simply Removing clothing is the most painful thing I do on a daily basis. I am on this page currently bc I was woken up to stabbing pain. I plan to see my doctor asap
Jim
Overland Park KS
I got my annual flu shot this fall with no problems.
Brittany
Seattle , WA
I got my flu shot on Dec. 11th 2015 and my arm is still sore (today is February 2) almost 2 months on. I hired a vaccine lawyer. This is awful and I have gotten flu shots my entire life and have never had an issue. I will not be getting them anymore and will raise awareness on this and the vaccine fund as well. I can’t shower, brush my hair, put on deodorant or anything!!!!!! Heat, ice, massages and psychical therapy does NOTwork. I’m having to pay for of all the things. I never needed these things before, I don’t feel that I should pay for them either.
Sharon
houston
I can relate to all the comments i have read. This is extremely painful where I had the flu shot from a cvs drug store. I haven’t had any test, but I was thinking It could be tendonitous. I am thinking of going to a real doctor to find out what could be going on. It hurts.
Mae
Drain, Oregon
I received the new pneumonia shot on Dec 18 2015. I received it high on my right arm and I am now having severe pain. My arm goes numb and I almost drop things constantly. I have had to go back to the Dr. 3 times and have received an MRI and it say my arm is inflamed which I already knew. I have trouble sleeping at night. Now, I can’t do a lot of the things for very long and I love to do crafts. There says there is compensation on here for this, but don’t see anywhere for me to go to get info on this.
Kathy
Utah
I got my flu shot on November 17, 2015. My arm is in constant pain. I thought the pain would go away in a couple of days but it hasn’t. I can move my arm but I have to be very careful with it. I feel like I have lost all strength in that arm. It hurts to take my blouse off. I am constantly rubbing my arm. If I lose my balance and go to catch myself it shoots the worst pain down my arm clear to my finger tips. Will I get another flu shot, no way.
Pula Taupule
Long Beach, CA
I have a flu shot on Monday Feb. 29, 2016, is been 3 days, and I saw these messages it scared me, I cry night and morning with the pain on my arm going up my neck and affect the back of my shoulders. I can barely lift a 16 ounces of bottle water, or dress myself in the morning for work….. sometimes I cry at work and I asked myself why me, I felt so good when I went in for my physical that day, until I got the flu shot. I’m so upset I have to go through this pain ever day.
Allison
Wadesboro NC
I had my shot in early October 2015 by a pharmacist who came to our church to give the flu shots. The shot was also given high in my arm; however, I had no pain at all with the stick or when the vaccine was pushed, which I thought was unusual. I had the usual arm discomfort from the initial shot later, but unfortunately I am still experiencing the pain of trying to sleep at night if I roll over on it and also the limited range of motion of trying to reach behind my back with that arm. I am finally able to take a shirt off over my head without terrible pain. Have not been to the doctor yet but am going to have to break down and go.
Mary
Washington State
In January 2013 my husband and I both got flu shots. We both had severe pain immediately. We were both working in healthcare and I have gotten a flu shot every year, this was my husband’s first and last.
This has been three very long years, the pain is incredible still. I can’t brush my teeth or do my hair without that burning agonizing pain. We have tried cortisone injections, physical therapy, active release therapy, pain meds (my husband is still having to use them), prednisone and the list goes on.
To add insult to injury, we have been treated almost like criminals by doctors. Many have refused to see us or insisted that a flu shot could not cause this. We were both scheduled for surgery in February 2014. When we did our pre-op visit, we had finished the labs, xrays, etc then the surgeon came in and promptly changed the diagnosis and told us he would not do the surgery.
He made a comment about litigation and walked out. We had never said a word about litigation and had no intention of suing anyone. We later found out that the clinic responsible had called him and asked him not to do the surgery.
We have both filed claims with the vaccine compensation program and will be receiving settlements but I would gladly give it back to not have to live in such pain every day. We used an attorney that specializes in this. That has been the only painless part!
I had to trick a doctor into seeing us and he at least told us that my husband’s shoulder could be fixed with surgery but mine cannot. He suggested a neurologist so that is my next move. It’s nice to know that we are not alone in this.
Bonni
San Diego CA
Mary, just wondering why that clinic would call the doctor not to do the surgery? It was very disheartening to read that you’ve been dealing with this for 3 years. I guess I’m just starting its been since October 23rd 2015 I’ve been told I should get a lawyer. After reading your post I’m thinking I should. I would like to know how to find a doctor that and treat this problem or at least would acknowledge that it exists !
Mary
Oregon
In October 2015 I had my flu shot and pneumonia imunization. By that evening I could not move my arm. I was in absolute agony.
I can’t pickup things with my right arm. At night, trying to sleep it’s awful. The shot was given really high. It’s late January 2016 and I’m still in bad shape.
I went back to the doctor and they took and X-ray and said they saw arthritis. Yet prior to the immunizations I had no pain in my shoulder at all.
Laurie
oakland, ca
I’ve been really worried that I had bone cancer or something. I got pain that never left after my flu shot in October, 2015. Still hurts and when I take off a sweater it really hurts. FInally decided to check to see if anyone else had an adverse reaction to the flu shot. Frankly, I’m glad to know that I was right, it was because of the flu shot and it’s not something much more serious. And, this is a major drag and I’m sorry we’re all having to deal with this.
Good luck everyone.
Jennifer
I had my flu shot November 4 2014. I had a lot of pain, that just got worse over time. I was in hysterics 2 weeks after the shot. I was sent to one orthopedic surgeon who said no way it was from the shot. A week later I could not take it anymore and went to a different orthopedic surgeon who said he had seen this before thank god. I tried cortisone shots and physical therapy. Nothing helped long term. I had bursitis surgery in February 2015. It helped with the throbbing pain, but I still could not raise my arm or put it behind my back. In November I went for a mri with contrast and the full damage was seen I had a large tear right around where the shot was given. You see not only did she inject it to high but when the needle was in my arm nothing came out of the syringe so she moved the needle while still in my arm and made it worse. So now I am recovering from my second surgery done last week. Sling for 6 weeks, physical therapy for 5 months, and pain I can’t put in to words. So I recommend if you have pain like I had seek a second opinion if anyone tells you this cannot happen from the flu shot because it can.
Larry Schmidt
Tobaccoville, North Carolina
I got my shot in my left arm at the VA in the early part of September. The arm got sore by the end of that day and got worse and worse over the next few days. Now four months later I can barely use my left arm above the shoulder, I can’t sleep on my left side and is usually sore or painful 24/7. I find it hard to believe that tiny needle to cause damage that would last four months. I believe the high dose who vaccine messes up the muscle tissue. 4 months is too damn long to be hurting
Tracy
United States
Hello everyone, I am so sorry to see that many people have been injured by the flu shot. On or about Oct. or Nov. last year, my husband and my father in law went to the local VA Clinic here in NW Missouri to get the flu shot. I waited in the car with my mother in law. I thought my husband acted strange when he got back in the car. Soon he began to tell me that the shot hurt really bad. I rolled up his sleeve and it was beet red all the way around the top of his arm. That evening he was taking pain pills and an over the counter anti inflammatory. This is now The end of January and some days he can’t even drive. It hurts him to raise his arm etc. This is not right and I would like to get to the bottom of what is causing these same symptoms in a lot of people Thank you so much and I hope all of you find comfort soon. Tracy
CJS
Illinois
I received a flu and pneumonia shot December 4, 2015 in my upper left arm. A week later I had several bruises on my arm between my shoulder and elbow. I talked to a nurse and she said it probably was because the shot had to be put in the muscle. December 27 weekend my left arm started hurting when I tried to lift anything, then on New Year’s Eve my other arm started hurting also. I have arthritis pain in my muscles, but never anything like this. I decided to see if anyone else had the same thing and saw all the above comments. It sounds like it won’t be getting any better. Will call my doctor tomorrow.
Sandra
USA ...Alabama
SANDRA……. January 7 , 2016 I had the flu shot over five years ago . I am right handed . I had been to the Dr. about my left arm . I decided to get my flu shot in my right arm . It is hurting just as bad today , you would think I just took the shot if you could feel my pain . Over the years I prayed the nurse that gave me the painful shot would never give me a shot again , and she did not . Not being mean , the other two nurses would give me my shots , if I needed one . Now , I am scare to take a shot , more fearful it will hurt more . Now I tell my experience to other nurses, before taking a shot. When you tell someone this that has not experience this , they look at you side eye. Thank you for sharing your experience .
Pac
US
On Dec42015 I got a flu shot, never had problems before. The nurse put the shot very high in the shoulder up by the joint. The shot itself didn’t hurt but within 2 hours it began throbbing. The pain has steadily increased involving the shoulder,upper arm, scapula, and upper back. I’ve tried laser therapy, around of anti inflammatory Medicine, getting ready to start Physical Therapy tomorrow . Pain has been horrible, can’t sleep in any position without waking up. Can’t raise left arm without pain , can barely pick up my purse. I am very active and this is driving me crazy, can’t do any activity without pain. I am trying to maintain my range of motion, but it is very painful and hard. I want to know how long this is going to continue and if it’s ever going away?
Jennifer
N.Y.
I had my shot 11/4/2014 I am now recovering from my second shoulder surgery. My shot was way to high on my arm and the pain after a week was shocking. I could not wash my hair,drive,get dressed..etc. I had surgery in February 2015 that helped but I still could not put my arm through much. Long story short I had a Mir with contrast and it showed a large tear. So now I sit here 8 days after surgery miserable, tired, in pain and in a ginormous sling for the next 6 weeks. Cannot work, drive, wash my hair, sleep etc. So if I were you I would have it looked at a little closer….good luck
ST
I had my flu shot at a local pharmacy on Oct. 24 this past fall. At the time, I questioned the pharmacist about giving it so high in my shoulder. She insisted that she had been trained to give it in the deltoid muscle. By that evening, I had pain which I am still experiencing more than 2 months later. It hurts to raise my arm even moderately high. It hurts to lift a jug of milk. It awakens me several times a night. Today I finally saw a doctor who gave me a cortisone shot after determining through x-rays that nothing was obviously wrong. Fortunately, he had already had the experience with another patient and the flu shot so he believed me! He feels I will get relief. I am certainly uneasy about getting future flu injections. Have always had the flu shot with no prior problems.
Pac
Has the Corinne shot helped? I am considering that but really don’t want to.
Lydia
The cortisone shot and physical therapy has helped increase my range of motion, but I still have pain in my arm. The PA said the next step is either another shot or exploratory surgery. They did an exray which showed nothing wrong with my bones. Then they did a MRI which showed (without dye) inflamation on top of my shoulder and a lot of fluid in my rotary cuff. They are calling it an impingement. I know it is from the flu shot I received November 3, 2015!
Nancy
PA
I also had the flu shot in September 2015. It was my left arm and so high I thought it went right into my shoulder. The pain has been severe accompanied with an inability to move my arm ever since. The pain has moved now to my shoulder area and collar bone, and I’m hoping it won’t spread to my spine. I have tried hyperbaric therapy which helped a little. After four months I am still unable to raise my arm in the shower and shave my left underarm. I am completely incapable of sleeping on my left side, along with taking off a coat. I’ve had only one other flu shot and I would never have another shot.
I might get a steroid shot to help jolt it out of my system. But that would be a last resort. Oddly, the medical community doesn’t seem to be to concerned about my pain.
Kj
Maine
I went to the local hospital a few years ago to a flu shot clinic. The “nurse” cleaned the area and darted the shot, as soon as she got the needle in my arm I had a sharp pain at the sight which had never happened before. I told her that I thought she had hit a nerve, she assured me that she was experienced and hadn’t. I still have pain and it wakes me from sleep if I lay on that arm.
AH
Charlotte
I had a flu shot November 4, 2015. It was in my left arm. I am left-handed but the nurse assured me it would be ok and told me that I need to move it. It is December 22, 2015, and it hurts to lie a certain way. The pain when I move my arm goes from upper arm toward collar bone. I feel miserable. Tired of pain. Prednizone ordered by my doctor. This is terrible! If I stretch my left arm up or out it can be done but with pain and difficulty.
karielle
United States
I had the flu shot in October
I have had a sore arm ever since. If I fall asleep on that side I wake up with pain where the pharmacist gave me the shot. I get the shot every year and have never had pain. It still hurts if I move it a certain way or lift something. It hurts when I get up in the morning too. Sometimes I cannot sleep on that side at all.
C. W.
I’ve had the same problems as Karielle has since I got my flu and new pneumonia shot. I wasn’t sure which one was the problem until I started reading about the flu shot bothering so many people. I also have a swelling down by my elbow on the inside of arm from it. My doctor has prescribed going in to have an ultrasound of my left arm which I will probably do next week and see what the results show and what or if anything can be done about it.
Deborah
Los Angeles, CA
I had a flu shot on Oct. 7, 2015.I had flu shots for at least 15 years and only had a slightly sore arm for a day or so. I was healthy and no medical conditions. My arm was so sore that I couldn’t get any relief from Advil. I could not use it without extreme pain that kept getting worse and numbness and tingling in index, middle and ring finger. I couldn’t get into my doctor–the PA who gave me the shot said to go to urgent care. I self treated with Advil and some Hydrocodone left over from a hysterectomy 2 years ago–it didn’t help so I went to urgent care on Oct. 28. He prescribed NSAIDs and physical therapy. It helped some but mid November after I quit PT the pain came back with a vengeance. I went to urgent care again and he sent me for more PT. I insisted on getting in to see my doctor and she sent me to a rheumatologist. He has me on multiple medications–10m (6 per day) Prednisone, Voltarin (2 a day), Neurontin (3 at night), Norco every 6-8 hours, and these drugs to prevent damage that the others could cause–Fosamax, vitamin D, calcium, and Prilosec.
I have to work, so I need to plan the medications so that I can function during the day but I am very foggy. I have PT 3 times weekly. After a week the pain is manageable but the fingers are numb & tingling. I am having an MRI as soon as they can schedule it, and I have an appointment with a neurologist in January. I am so upset because I had an active life, going to the gym several days a week, yoga, and now I have a serious medical problem because of a flu shot. I don’t know what to do if this persists for much longer. It has been more than 2 months.
Jennifer
You should see a orthopedic surgeon. I am recovering from my second surgery right now from a flu shot injury.
Bonni
San Diego
I keep reading about people having 2 surgeries, why is that? How does the flu shot cause injuries that need surgery? Thank you.
John
Katy, Tx
I have had pain in my shoulder for about 4 weeks now. I received a flu shot at Walgreens in my upper left arm. Thought it was just a coincidence the pain happened at the same time as the shot. I have gotten many shots in the past without any issue. Thought maybe I slept on it wrong. Now Im starting to think it was the shot causing the problem. Cant raise my arm much, hurts to put on a shirt. Has gotten only slightly better over the 4 weeks.
Kathy
Mahomet IL
Just had my flu shot to day dec 7,2015. About a hour and a half after I got home sitting on the couch my arm started hurting!! I can hardly lift it…… afraid to go to bed and roll over on it….. now I am reading all these stories and I am freaking out. She injected me a lot higher than it felt… the bandaid is almost on top of my shoulder…. omg I hope this goes away…. it really hurts
karielle
I got my shot at Walgreens too. Bad shot. Hurt and he was rough.
Debbie R.
Minnesota
Had my flu shot 6 weeks ago. He gave it to me way high on the shoulder. Had pain after the shot. The next day could not raise my arm without pain. After 6 weeks of pain at night I woke up last night with terrible pain. Went to the ER in my town. The doctor on call gave me a pill for pain. That did not work at all. Ended up getting a shot for pain. That finally worked after and hour and lasted for a couple of hours. Then the pain came back I could not stand it. Was told to see a orthopedic doctor. Could not get in. Ended up going to urgent care and they had to inject my shoulder. The pain is much better but still very sore and I don’t have the range of motion I had before I got my shot. Hopefully things get better.
darlene
Ontario, CANADA
I just got the flu shot today Dec 2 2015 and am having same pain right after shot. It hurts to lift arm and feel it down to my wrist. This is not right, someone needs to look into this. I have never had a problem with a shot till now.
Sheryl
Chicago,Il
I had my first flu vaccine on Monday and my left arm is so sore. It’s painful to the touch, and every time I move it it hurts. I’ve tried ice, heat and took Benadryl believing this was an allergic reaction. Nothing helps. I’m shocked that this is a real issue with so many other sufferers. Why don’t doctors know about this! What’s being done to end the problem? What recourse do victims of this vaccine have against the manufacturer?
MistyM
Wy
The reason that Doctors don’t seem to know about is that you can’t really sue them and get anywhere because of vaccine laws. If doctors or clinics could be sued then they would become more aware, and put in safety measures to prevent it. They have no financial incentive to
change the way the sloppy way they are giving vaccinations. This applies to pharmacies as well.
Its my understanding , if you get injured by a vaccine, or the administrator of it, you can only file with the Vaccine Court for compensation. I have retained a lawyer and will be filing a claim myself. Please if you are injured check in to this. I think the more claims that are filed the better it is to prevent other people from being injured. If no-one complains they will continue there malpractice!! The more awareness the better. Let’s fight this!
Charlene
sacramento
I had my first flu shot on 10/30/15 as of today 12/1/15 I am still having pain in not only my arm but the pain also has moved to my neck and back but only on one side.. two days after the shot my neck as limited to about a 5 degree range of motion but as since gotten a little better .. going into see my PCP again on the 4th. I am going to ask for scans to make sure no damage was done.. this should never happen to anyone.. I would rather have gotten the flu and been done with it than be in pain like this …
DeAnna
Florida
I had my first flu shot November 10th 2015…..it has been 3 weeks and I still have shoulder and arm pain. I cannot raise my arm or sleep on my side. Nothing has been able to take away the pain.
Laurie
Michigan
I received my flu shot almost a month ago. I have been a medical assistant for over 25 years. I was sitting down when I received my injection. It didn’t really hurt too much until that evening. I though boy I have had flu shots for years and have never had so much pain. My range of motion is very limited. I can’t sleep on that side. I received it on my dominant side because I had never had problems before. I do have a Drs. Appointment in a few days and I will tell them but what can they do. Nothing . I am The one who can’t move my arm, the one in pain that is moving up to my neck. I am so angry. I never heard of this before. I never had a patient complain to me about my injections hurting except tetanus which is normal. I would of rather had the flu. I am done with flu shots. Patients need to be told this can happen. Not just are you allergic to eggs and do you have a cold. I am really angry. I can’t do yoga because I can’t put pressure on my arm. Really angry.
Patricia
Hawthorne, FL USA
wanted to know if for some reason since I had the flu shot why my arm almost a month later is killing me.. can not with out horrible pain raise my arm.. weird what I have read and sure fits the profile, have always had a flu shot every yr. But thought I would do a search seeing I have never had this issue before… on occasion it radiates into my back very strange and I knew I had not done anything to injury so was very curious what could be the problem
Rosie
new york
I had the shot last night – I’ve never had a problem in 6 years! Firstly – my arm spurted out blood that ran down my arm – then there was an INSTANTANEOUS lump out of the point of impact raised approx half an inch the size of a penny – this then developed into a bruise with now a large hard tender lump 2 1/2in x 1 1/2in. As with others I couldn’t sleep on it (also had horrific nightmares!)
What happened? And when will it go away?
Kate
Boston
I’ve had a sore shoulder for 12 days since my flu shot.
Have a range of motion but with soreness. Hard to sleep as it hurts no matter
which side I sleep on.
Never had this before. Came on a few hours after flu shot . Does not seem to get better though the first 3 days were really painful. Now it’s better at times and then worse at times.
Denise
Long Island, NY
I am an RN and required by my workplace to get the flu vaccine. I have been receiving the flu vaccine for the past 10 years due to this requirement, without incident. This year is a completely different story. I received the vaccine late September 2015. I felt a mild pinch at injection, and a little discomfort afterward. 2 months later I have increasing discomfort in my deltoid muscle. It’s getting worse, not better. I feel quite a bit of discomfort when I lift my arm past a 45 degree angle. I spoke with my employee health department and they say this is the first time they are hearing of such a thing. This will be the last time I get a flu vaccine.
Will
Los Angeles
I noticed some soreness in my left deltoid, that started out of the blue yesterday. There was no recent reason for the soreness. When I mentioned this to my mother, she said that she has had the same thing in previous years after receiving a flu shot. She said the soreness lasted for several months. It was then that I realized the soreness was on the exact location that I received flu shot 5 weeks ago. And it felt just like the soreness that I had soon after I received the shot. Upon reading other similar cases on this website, I believe I may still be feeling the effects of that shot.
Jean
Fl
I got my flu shot this year in early October. The shot usually causes me to have pain with a hard, swollen lump at the sight of the injection. This time I also have also developed an achy painful shoulder joint. I was hoping that it would soon resolve on its own, butt t that’s not happening. Sound like too many others are having the same problem. Somebody needs to take this seriously.
Dana
Irvine,ca.
I got the flu shot in September 2015 at my local Kaiser Permanente clinic. I have had the flu shot several years in a row from Kaiser and never had this reaction before. My left arm feels extremely sore and I can’t lift it. When I go to the gym I cannot do my normal exersizes and I don’t understand why I’m in so much pain after 7 weeks of getting the vaccine for the flu. This isn’t normal.
Nancy
West Palm Beach, FL
I got the flu shot in my right upper arm on November11, 2015 at my doctor’s office. My shoulder, arm, wrist and neck are all very sore and achy. I took Aleve and it hasn’t helped. It is painful day and night and makes sleeping difficult. My tendons in that arm are tender and make noise and pop when I roll my wrist. I have gotten flu shots for several years and never had anything like this happen.
Christine
Canastota, NY
I got the flu shot, as I have for the last 12 years, on September 23, 2015 at my County health department. In previous years, my arm was sore for a couple days then I was fine. This year, I got the shot in the morning and within a couple hours I felt extreme fatigue. That evening I started getting a very sore throat. The next day, my sore throat worsened so that I could barely swallow, came down with fever of 101 and chills, and was in bed most of the day. The fever broke overnight but I was extremely tired and started to get head and chest congestion and coughing to the point I couldn’t sleep at night. The Netipot with saline helped for short periods. I went to the doctor and was told I had a virus and needed fluids and rest. It is now going on 4 weeks and I’m still coughing and my shoulder pain and range of motion seems to be getting worse instead of better. This will be my last year getting the flu shot!
Peggy
Oregon
Last year (2014) when I got my flu shot, I felt the needle hit the bone on my shoulder. (I am a thin female). It hurt so bad I wanted to cry. My shoulder was very sore for about 2 months and then gradually got better, but it was probably 6 months before I could sleep on that side. Now, when I get a shot, I tell the nurse to be careful.
Cheri
Syr ny
I got my flu shot October 21, 2015- my shoulder has been very painful ever since then. It feels like tendonitis and hurts to raise my arm above my shoulder-I have been taking Advil ever since and can’t sleep on my left side. It is alittle better but still painfull
Darlene
Chicago, Illinois
I had my flu shot on November 2, 2015. This is the 3rd annual flu vaccine that I’ve had. I was warned by the physician’s assistant that this year’s shot was going to be more painful, both when giving the shot and afterward, due to having 4 strains they are vaccinating against. And she was correct — it hurt!… and I have been poked a lot. For a few days after, the site was very tender, sore and swollen, and I also noticed that my neck on that side was becoming tender. Then about 5 days later, I noticed that I couldn’t lift my arm, and over the last 3 days, it has gotten worse. I have an appointment with my family physician tomorrow. Hopefully, she will order physical therapy and it will help. I am very concerned with what I am reading about this vaccine can affect a person’s range of motion of the shoulder.
Barb
Delaware
I have been getting flu shots since 2009 when my husband was hospitalized for H1N1 and have never had an issue.
I received my flu shot this year in October 2015; the next day I was trying to get an appointment for physical therapy. At that time I hadn’t made connection between the flu shot and the pain.
Since then I have gone to the ER, been prescribed Steroids and gone to Physical Therapy. I take Aleve every 4 hours although I don’t know why; it hasn’t relieved the pain. Nothing has worked.
The pain is tormenting, I can’t sleep through the night, every movement wakes me up in agonizing pain. I can’t function because pain with movement prevents me from doing many of the things I normally do daily without incident, e.g., reach with my left arm, turn my wrist, lift things, sweep the floor.
At work I am very limited, answering the phone can be traumatic. I find it eye opening that as a secretary many of my workday activities have to do with reaching and motion. The thing that is most annoying is this pain is very tricky. The heaviest pain and audible popping occurs when I move in just the “right” direction. I think I have the combination to avoiding the pain all worked out…I begin a project and seconds in I forget not to bring my arm up in a certain way or cross my body with my arm and become embarrassed by the sound I make while whimpering in excruciating pain and holding my shoulder.
If anyone has found any relief from this torment, please make that information public. I would love to return to my life pre-flu shot.
Kelley
Toledo,Ohio
On October 22, 2015 I received a flu vaccination. My left shoulder has not stopped aching since that day. My range of motion is limited and I’m having difficulty sleeping at night because of it. I notified the pharmacist who administered the shot. She stated she had never heard of anyone having that problem and she would “document” it in my file. I advised my PCP and she basically blew me off. I’m nit sure where to go from here.
Jennifer
N.Y.
I had two surgeries from my flu shot. I am 11 days since the last one. See a orthopedic surgeon. My shot was put in the bursa. I had that cleaned out. The shot also caused a tear.
Cheryl
Portland, TX
I had my flu shot on September 29, 2015. I was sitting and the lady from Walgreens was standing. She administered the injection very high on my shoulder. I thought it was weird. When I got back to my office, I mentioned to my co-workers how hight the vaccine was given. My deltoid and whole arm started hurting that same day. I thought it was the “normal” pain that usually goes with he flu shot. Wrong! After 2 weeks, the pain was still there so I went to my orthopedic doctor. He had never heard of a vaccine causing this. He injected my shoulder with cortisone and gave me a prescription for physical therapy. The cortisone shot helped a lot! It got rid of the pain. However, when I started the PT 4 days later, the pain immediately came back and has remained constant. At my 3 week check up with the doctor, I explained what was going on. He is really concerned that something in my shoulder is torn. I now have to have an MRI this week and I should find out this week if I will need surgery. This is crazy! I can’t say for sure if it was the vaccine that cause it, but I can say that I didn’t have any issues with my shoulder before my flu shot this year. I’ve already spent over $350 on this injury. Now, with the MRI and possible surgery, I don’t know how I’m going afford it!
Liz
South wales
I had the flu injection in October 2014, my third to date. My arm hurt immediately after and became increasingly worse. The pain went down to my elbow and graduated along the inside and outer side of my left arm. The pain grew worse as it moved back and forth from lower arm to upper arm and to the side of my neck. I couldn’t lay on my left side and had to grip my upper arm in order to try and do some exercises. This lasted for 10 months. I still have some pain in my upper arm and neck, however, thankfully I no longer have to take painkillers. I’m NOT going through that again.
Tiffany
Oshkosh, WI
I received my flu shot as I usually do, covered under my work health plan.
The shot hurt right away, and I commented to my co-worker when I got back to my desk, that it really hurt this time!
Within the next week my shoulder began hurting. It hurts when I move in almost any direction, it hurts when I lay on my left side, and the rest of the time it is a continuous dull aching pain that goes all the way down my arm.
I am searching and reading articles on this. I was not exercising and have never had shoulder pain in the past, it is only since the flu shot.
I’m not sure what my next step is. I am patiently waiting for it to go away, but it’s not happening. I guess my next step is the Dr., and from what I have gathered from everyone. They tend to deny it’s the flu shot and it turns into a battle. Great! Never again will I get a flu shot.
Any advice is welcome, thank you
Gayle
55075
I got the flu shot Oct 1th. Pain started that evening and now it radiates to my shoulder and down my arm to my hand. My hand is weak and the whole arm very painful. I filled out the report for FDA. No one says what to do about it.
Rita
Indiana
I got my flu shot in September and it still hurts where the injection is I mean it’s sore don’t understand why.
Elaine
Albany, NY
I found this site after a search to see if others have experienced issues with injuries to the shoulder following a flu shot. I got one as I am a Hospice volunteer, otherwise I would prefer not to. Due to breast cancer, I asked for the shot in my dominant arm and it hurt a lot during the injection (I went to CVS). Several hours later, I was in quite a lot of pain. That was over a week ago and I have lost many hours of sleep due to the pain. Lifting my arm and reaching is a serious issue. I’ve been taking ibuprofen.
Erica
NOLA
This is happening to me also. I thought I was losing it.
Sherry Johnson
Kill Devil Hills, NC
I got my flu shot last week and for the first time I am having severe pain in my arm. Nothing that I have tried is working. I called my doctor’s office and they said they have never heard of this before. I previously worked in a school system and have received flu shots for many years with no problem. Do I have any recourse available?
Deborah hughes
Chico ca
Seems to me after I read all the complaints .something in the shots did not dissolve hardened in the muscles so maybe hot compresses on the mucus where it hurts will dissolve the stuff and move on
amber
I got my flu shot last week as I am pregnant, my dr. Didn’t even give me a choice in the matter. Now my left arm is very painful and I wake up crying every night due to how bad it is hurting! I will never get a flu shot again!
Amos D
MN
Great deal of achy muscles I shoulders and arms
Shannon
California
I just got the flu shot today myself and it’s later when I normally get it. I got mine done in the upper left arm and yes my left arm hurts. I am used to sleeping on that side and I am having a hard time sleeping. Is it safe or actually okay to sleep on the side of where the flu shot was injected or not a good idea. Plus I feel tender and sore but no reactions yet. Any answers would be greatly appreciated too
donna
Missouri
I’ve gotten flu shots for many years, and never had the flu. I massage the area for about 15 minutes after injected and seldom have any pain. This year I got the recommended double dose, I think that’s what they called it, near the top of my arm. Usually get them further down. My arm has hurt ever since.
Paul Osborne
Hendersonville, NC
About 15 years ago, my wife and I drive through a mobile flu shot clinic with her as driver and I the passenger.. She got the injection in the left shoulder and mine was in the right. The next day I was unable to raise my right arm above my waist and my wife had the same problem with her left arm. Her pain passed quickly but mine remained, Motion was restricted in any orientation above the waist with incredible pain. This continued for a year and a half causing me to swear off any future flu shots. After eighteen months or so, I remember that it disappeared and I avoided flu shots for many years.
Fast forward to 2014: My employer had required employees to take the flu shots and I had done so for five years with problems. My doctor administered the 2014 flu shot in my left arm and the next day my shoulder joint was painful, like arthritis. The next day I was in excruciating pain and could not raise my arm above my waist in any direction. The pain was incredible and kept me awake at night. I had major problems with showering and driving. An X-Ray was read as “mild arthritis”, typical of patient age.
The internet provided some interesting reading about a condition called Adhesive Capsulitis which seemed to describe my symptoms exactly, including the “popping” sound then coming from the joint. The good news seemed to be that this condition lasts about 18 to 24 months and gradually improves. This has been my experience, that is, gradual improvement in range of motion and reduction in nocturnal pain. I’m now about 12 months into this and have great forward and upward range with pain at the end of the range. I still cannot raise my arm above my waist out to the side and much pain accompanies any attempt to do so. I can live with it now and it really seems to improve slightly every few weeks.
My doctor says that it is impossible for the flu shot, administered by him, to have caused any of this. I’m an engineer and can only apply my observations of cause and effect here. I’m not prone to hysterical fantasy so you can see that he and I disagree on this. I’ve asked for the oral or inhaled flu vaccine this year for obvious reasons. I’m so glad I read your recent column of injection site problems and may pursue some compensation along those lines. Thank you.
Deb
albany Ny
I received a flu shot at my doctors office today at their lab. Getting the shot was nto pleasant but bearable ( because I am a teacher of elementary age students I get the shot almost every year for at least the last 10 years or more). About 30 minutes later when I arrived home I was in incredible pain. My entire left arm and under my armpit and upper chest was in intense pain ( it is my non dominant side). I massaged it and lightly warm packed it and then sent my husband to buy some tylenol as we had nothing but advil ( internet advised not to use). Its been about 7 hours and 2 tylenols later and it is a bit more tolerable. I also noticed that my injection site was almost on my shoulder and I have never had one that high before. As other have said , this is my last time if they will not give me the nasal version. It is going to be a tough sleep tonight and I may go back to the doctor’s office tomorrow.
Ashle
Douglasville, Ga
I received my second ever flu vaccine about a month ago in my left arm and I have been experiencing excruciating shoulder pain since. I received the vaccine at work and while every one else’s shoulders quit hurting after 3 or 4 days, mine did not. I cannot lift my arm without pain, unless I lift it up with my right hand and don’t use any of the muscles in my left arm. It hurts to sleep and do even the most minor motions. I noticed when the nurse injected me, that she injected it VERY high. I am tall and skinny, so when I complained about initial pain she just said I needed to work out and gain some more muscle by the next year so it won’t hurt as bad.. Also, when she injected me, three of my fingers went completely numb until she pulled the needle out. I told her this, and like my other comment I made, she simply made a joke of it. Now that I am reading that people are still dealing with this problem YEARS afterwards, it terrifies me. I am only 22, and should not be having chronic shoulder pains like this.. VERY aggravated and concerned at this point. Especially when working in the health field, I am required to get this stupid thing.
Mary
Georgia
I was amazed when I read this post. Three years ago, after receiving a flu shot at my local Rite-Aid, I developed a problem with my shoulder that lasted for 18 months. At first, I attributed it to soreness from the shot, but then concluded that I must have injured it somehow. The problem was limited range of motion – specifically, when I tried to reach backwards (like into the back seat of the car), there was excruciating pain. I mentioned this to my internist, who thought it might be a rotator cuff injury, but I never followed through with seeing a specialist. Somewhat to my surprise, I corrected the problem myself by gradually adding shoulder stretches to my yoga routine, and now it’s perfectly fine. But it NEVER occurred to me that my original assumption might be correct about the flu shot. Wow. This is astounding.
Sara
I received a flu shot in 2013. I did not look when she administered the shot, but it hurt more than previous shots (I have gotten the flu shot for at least 10 years by the same person). When I got home, I saw that the bandaid was very high on my arm. I could not lift my arm by the end of the night. I moved my arm as much as I could (my dominant arm) but felt no relief. We tried steroids and it eased the pain, but as soon as I finished them, the pain came roaring back. Long story short, an MRI showed bursitis. I got a steroid shot and went through PT. The pain lessened but I still did not have complete range of motion. Doctor recommended surgery. Had surgery and a small tear to my rotator cuff was found. I am a healthy 35 year old who does not have a job/hobby that involves repetitive motion that would cause these issues. I did receive compensation form the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. As a patient with SIRVA, I had the burden to prove my injury was from the vaccine injection and not an unrelated injury. I have not gotten a flu shot since then. I am too scared.
Sara S.
Columbia, SC
I’m a 65 yr. old woman. Got the quadrivalent flu shot last year at Walgreens. It was in my non-dominant arm. I had no problems and no flu. I’ve never had an issue but now am nervous after reading all these comments. My husband had the trivalent shot at his office this year and last and had no issues.
Kathryn G.
Miami, FL
In October 2010 I got a flu shot in upper left arm. Ache started that evening and continued for months, increasing, even. Mobility and range of left arm decreased and to this day, almost 5 years later, I still have that same pain, and decreased mobility and range of motion. I was afraid to get flu shots each year, thinking the same problem would recur and leave me in even more discomfort. With a history of cancer, I was advised to get flu shots, so I did, but always with some trepidation. Reading info online, I learned of many others with the same complaints, and most said they got their shots at drug store pharmacies, as did I. Last year my doctor administered it. I have had no additional new problems, but the original damage has never disappeared. I can’t sleep on my left side and my daily exercise program is adjusted to avoid left-handed weight lifting. In 2010, no one had ever heard of my complaint–today the issue is quite common.
Kay
Evans, GA
I had “frozen shoulder” for about 6 months after a Hep A vaccine in preparation for an overseas trip. At the time of the shot I thought it felt different from any other vaccine injection, and when I began having pain and motion restriction I associated that with the shot. My orthopedist listened to my theory, but he never commented. I had a steroid injection and PT. A couple of months later an MRI was ordered because I was still having problems, and there was no evidence of rotator cuff injury. I had another steroid injection and more strenuous PT, and I saw some improvement. At the end, what did me the most good was a single myofascial release treatment. Wow, what an immediate difference!
In the future I will be vigilant about the location of the injection – three fingers from the top of the shoulder – as the one that caused such distress was given at the top.
Valerie
College station, tx
Well now I feel like a whimp. Got my flu shot 1 wk ago & I bled, surprising the med tech & myself. It hurt like crazy & bruised. It is still causing severe burning (seering) pain. I cant sleep on it or lift it or ,God-forbide, my toddler grandson I nanny, touch it without pain. It’s still bruised. I see here I’m not alone & that this could be a long time.
Sue
CT
I had this happen to me several years ago after a flu shot I had pain whenever I lifted my arm and it lasted nine months I had to go to physical therapy for it. I have never had a problem with flu shots since then.
John A.
Louisiana
Five years ago I had my first flu shot, hit the bed & couldnt move my head for 4 days. I have never been so sick. When I finally was mobile after about 10 days, I ached from head to toe, every joint in my body. I lived on 24 hr. coated aspirins for 6 months.
I questioned my doctor about it. Oh, she said, are you allergic to eggs? You’re kidding!!. Yes, I am very allergic to eggs. Even when I eat cake, particularly angel food cake, my head starts itching like mad the next day.
It turns out that the person giving the shot is supposed to ask the patient if they are allergic to eggs!!! (the dr. said it relates to the vaccine being “grown” in eggs) Yea, sure. Last year I went in for my annual wellness visit at another doctor, & while the “assistants” took my weight, vitals, questions, the young “assistant” asked, do you want a flu shot today?
No, I said, I’m allergic to eggs. “What does that have to do with eggs, she said”? I love these minimum-wage, untrained employees who make the office more profitable, while patients such as myself almost die because of their lack of training.
Ann
Georgia
My left arm has been hurting for a year after my flu shot last year. My internist has not agreed that the pain has anything to do with the shot. I find it interesting that others have had the same experience. The pain is similar to Bursitis.
Victoria
Ridgeway, VA
My arm frequently has ached and been tender after the yearly flu shot. Two years ago I had an ice bag with me and kept it on the injection site off and on for several hours. I also made a point of using that arm more frequently and did some exercises with it. The following day I had no difficulty, so followed that protocol again last year and will this year.
Jean
Washington state
When I received my quad shot last year, the person giving the shot jabbed the needle in a spot that caused me to jump with pain. I assumed it was in the bone, etc. It was sore for awhile, whether days or weeks , I do not remember. (I have a high tolerance for pain.) (the person blamed me for the jumping).
Sandy
Long Beach, CA
I get a flu shot every year, and I agree that last years shot left your arm sore for a longer period of time, but the pain diminished within a week. However, I did come down with the flu in January. I haven’t been that sick before. I was down and out for 2 weeks, then another week of regaining my strength. I never want to be that sick again so I will take my chances with another flu shot.
Cindy
South Carolina
Here it is September and time for another flu shot. My left arm is still sore from the one I got last year in October. Yes, they did give it to me in the muscle. I’ve gone through physical therapy and some powerful pain killers. The PT has helped but the pain killers did nothing and I’m back to Tylenol.
I am doing my PT exercises religiously but I’m unable to knit, crochet or weave. Keyboarding is also taking its tole but I have to work. I’m seriously thinking about NOT getting the shot this year.
carolyn
Debary, Fl
I had severe weakness and pain in my left shoulder after a flue shot and it lasted for 2 years. I started lifting weights and the pain is completely gone. I am a 64 year old female in good health.
Angela
NC
I am still trying to recuperate from my flu shot in my left arm last year. It feels almost like arthritis in my left shoulder joint, which incapacitated my arm immediately after my shot last year. I had to have physical therapy which helped some, but it is still painful to lift or move my shoulder. I talked to the pharmacist who administered the shot because I thought it was given too high on my arm. (I have a skinny arm.)
I am not sure about getting another shot this year. I was wondering if it could be given in the thigh rather than the arm?
I was also sick with pain in my ear and neck for five days after my shot, and I did report this to the adverse effects from vaccine board. I did not report the shoulder because I had assumed when I reported the illness that the shoulder pain would soon be gone. It isn’t.
n
virginia
I received the flu vaccine last Oct.29 2014 at my local pharmacy located in a grocery store. I have always gotten the flu shot each year. This year ,according to the pharmacist, I received a two vaccine mixture.
The area is always a little sensitive but this time I noticed the pain did not go away.
I work out at the YMCA three days a week ,I noticed my arm was so sore after my workout that I haven’t been able to sleep on my left side since,also I have to put a small pillow under that arm when I sleep on my dominant right side. If I wake up and that shoulder has slumped down the pain is severe.
I then read in your column that a nurse practitioner had written to your column that she had gotten flu after the shot and she still had substantial arm pain and muscle weakness and this was interfering with her workout.
I was at my physician’s office after that and complained to him and showed him the loss of muscle compared to my right arm.
I have been working out for nearly 10 years and have defined muscle tone all over my body.
He just said well just keep working it out.
I forgot on my last visit to remind him,but left a msg with his assistant that I was afraid to get this year’s flu shot ,or any shot as I would be afraid it would ruin my right arm as well.
I consulted my dermatologist at a recent visit and she said the pharmacist had hit a nerve and it starts at the back of my neck and will take a long time to regenerate.
It feels better after my workout,but pain returns that night.
I work that arm extra hard,but it is still mushy when I squeeze the muscle in my arm,as opposed to the nice tone in my other arm.
Joanne
Orlando FL
I had my annual flu shot last week and had no pain or repercussions. The technician said it is best to have it in the dominant arm and use that arm a lot the remainder of the day to move the vaccine around thoroughly, preventing next day soreness. Worked like a charm.
Marja Pate
sugar land, texas
I’ve been getting flu shots for about 10 years now and had normally just a a tender spot for a day or so. In 2013 I too had a very sore arm for several weeks after receiving a shot very high on the arm. I just figured the nurse was inexperienced in giving shots. Good to kow about this SERVA Will mention it when I go in for this year’s shot. I work around young children and don’t want to risk getting or giving them the flu. I remember the last time I had the flu and how horrible I felt for over a week.
Herb
durham nc
I just got my annual flu shot (65+) at the local drugstore (because my clinic is renovating) and by the end of the day and into the night, I could not raise the injected arm above my head without pain. This continued into the next morning when the pain began to decrease somewhat. After a few days it has mostly gone away. I was shocked and pleased to see your article on this phenomenon. Thanks.
S. Louise
NC
I have had bad reactions after flu vaccinations for years, usually for a couple of days. Sick and can barely move my arm – whole body sore and usually a fever. The last couple of years are the first I can remember where I was not sick after. I have no idea if this is why, but a nurse giving me one of my last shots told me to get it in my dominant arm as the more I moved it the less it would hurt. I took her advice and the last two were much better.
Joyce
FL
I, too, had pain, redness for over a week after last year’s flu shot, but no other effects. Was hospitalized for a-fib last December and given 4 injections of a blood thinner into my belly. The bruises and soreness lasted for over a month. Wondering if anyone else has had a similar experience?
Kat
Florida
I’ve gotten a flu shot every year since the late ’80s and never had a problem with the shot itself, except for slight soreness in my arm some years. I had no problems with last year’s vaccine/shot, but I did get the flu, which was awful. I worked at a hospital and got my shot there.
My husband got his shot from our local CVS and had no problems and also did not get the flu from me, although he was my caregiver while I was sick. He’s also never had any problems with the flu shot/vaccine.
Not sure about getting the shot this year—-haven’t decided yet.
Kat
Florida
I’ve gotten a flu shot every year since the late ’80s and never had a
Robles with the shot itself, except for slight soreness in my arm some tears. I had no problems with last year’s vaccine/shot, but I did get the flu, which was awful. My husband got his shot from our local CVS, and had no problems, and also did not get the flu from me, although he was my caregiver while I was sick. He’s also never had any problems with the flu shot/vaccine. Not sure about getting the shot this year—haven’t decided yet.
Betty France
Wisconsin
I read your first letter and I thought hey, I wrote that. But turns out it was another. The shot HURT at the time last fall from Walgreen, this year’s shot at the clinic was painless. After my flu shot last year, I want to bed that night and could not get out of bed in the morning without excruciating pain in my arm. I needed the bathroom and I could not get out of bed without a terrible struggle. All day I held my right arm with my left arm to keep it from moving and eventually put it in a sling. That night I went to the ER and he told me it was arthritis. I had never had arthritis in my life. That was over 10 months ago and my right arm is still extremely painful to raise and carry things. But the weird part is that it has spread to my left arm. Not logical at all, but true. And I KNOW the right arm pain was caused by the flu shot.
Noma
Australia
Not sure what type of flu shot I received but it was in April this year, the 22nd to be exact. By May I noticed I could not manage to use tweezers for focused attention to the eyebrows or any eye makeup. Other chores became a challenge because of hand tremors. I did the paper test and it vibrated a lot with both hands. Typing became a challenge. I saw my GP and she said it was related to the flu shot and would go away in 4 to 5 weeks. It is now the middle of September and I still have tremors. I have asked her to investigate. I really am not ready to live with this if anything can be done. I feel like I have lost strength in my arms; they are hard to get to move at times to even scratch my nose. I have researched and not found any comments about a similar problem. Any help anyone?
Mary
Cary
I get my flu shot every year. This year I had the quad shot. No pain, no discomfort. I’ve had the flu 3 times in my lifetime and I don’t wish to repeat it ever!
RUTH W
SIGNAL MOUNTAIN TN
I had a TDAP vaccination 4 months ago and gradually developed aching and weakness
over the left deltoid spreading to the upper back and even to the right shoulder and
Lynn
Cary, NC
I, too, had a very painful aftereffect from last year’s flu shot which lasted 2-3 weeks. This year, I made a point of massaging the site of the injection occasionally for a day or two and did not sleep on that side for two nights. The pain was gone on day three.
EML
Huntington, WV
On the day I got my flu shot at CVS, I also received a DPT shot in the same arm. The pharmacist said something about possibly having a sore arm, but that didn’t happen to me. The shots were given just below my left shoulder. For the past several years I have gone to CVS for the shots because my doctor doesn’t give them and it takes too long at a clinic. I have never had a problem.
Carolyn
AZ
September, 1990 I received a Tetanus shot in my left upper arm/I am skinny. I immediately had pain that continues until this day. My arm has become weaker and weaker over the years and I experience Arthritis like symptoms. The orthopedic doctor said the only treatment is a steroid shot–no thank you. He said I should continue to use the arm so it ‘won’t freeze up’. I have always been very physically active and I use the arm and hand despite the weakness. Sometimes I have to use my right arm to lift my left arm to remove something from a shelf, etc. Never had a flu shot and will never get another Tetanus shot.
Tom
Wisconsin
I thought nursing was a scientific field of study.
Lizzie
Greensboro, N.C.
So, that’s why my shoulder hurt for almost a full year after my flu shot last year! The pain in my arm wasn’t debilitating, I was just very sore if touched. I’ll ask my nurse to be extra careful where the needle goes in this year.
I had Hong Kong flu in 1968. I was healthy, athletic and young. I was fine one minute then horribly ill the next. I thought I was going to die for exactly two weeks. Hallucinations, painful chest etc. On the 14th day I woke up and it was like I’d never been ill. If a flu like that got me again at my age I think I might die. Those of you who avoid vaccinations, unless allergic, are taking such a chance if a super-flu comes again. It is odd how these two latest vaccines are causing this problem but I know I’ll get my vaccine every year.
Tom
Southeastern Wisconsin
I am approaching 68. I received the stronger vaccine. I have no pain or soreness. I get the flu shot every year. The only time I have had soreness or pain afterwards was when my arm was tense when I was given the shot. I got the shot last year and did not get the flu. Hope the vaccine works for more strains this year.
GWEN J
matthews nc
I get a flu shot every season. last year the shot made my left shoulder very sore. this year on the comment section I put the reaction about my shoulder being so sore. the person giving the shot was very good. later on my shoulder started hurting so it must be the high dose of vaccine for us older adults. before the higher dose my arm never bothered me.
Rosemary
Minnesota
I always re-act to flu shots with a brutally sore arm. Had to take them for my work environment (dirty factory, lot’sa sick people, no Sick Days). Last few times I got them, I made them put them in my rump. Worked fine, could handle a sore butt, not a sore arm that wouldn’t work in a manual labor situation. The nurses didn’t want to, but when I asked if it wouldn’t work if it was in my rump, they said, ‘Well, we just usually put it in the arm.’ NOT a good enough reason for me……..
Marlene
Woodridge, IL
My husband and I always have the flu shots. A few years ago I stopped at Walgreens, and the male pharmacist, after injecting, massaged my arm for what seemed a very long time. He explained that he had been a corpsman; that the difference between having a sore arm, and not, was the massaging.
He told me to continue doing so frequently, throughout the day. I not only did so, I massaged every time I felt a twinge, and passed the info onto anyone who brought up flu shots. We had no problem last year. It makes sense that to have the medication dissipated as thoroughly as possible, plus the relaxing effects of massaging, should help. I certainly hope so.
I want to share this article with family, but I don’t want to scare anyone away.
Our daughter was a very fit RN in her mid-forties when she got the flu several years ago. She developed pneumonia. I think she ended up in the hospital (she lives in Hawaii, doesn’t keep us posted on worrisome things). Recovery was lengthy, and she discovered her jogging was impaired.
A doctor explained that, as she has no fat, she had lost muscle mass. Her story is the one I tell to encourage anyone to get the flu shot. Some people die of the flu. It’s no fun to be sick. To lose your paid time off to illness instead of vacation days is disappointing. Get the shot, and keep massaging your arm from the time you get it, & every time you think of it, for several days.
Don
Durham, NC
I’ve received flu shots in both shoulders in different years and never thought to connect the subsequent lasting pain. I always attributed that pain to an exercise injury.
Larry
Dallas, TX
I had a very similar experience with the pneumonia vaccination.
The tricep muscle in the vaccinated arm lost enormous mass and strength but finally returned in about nine months.
For that reason, I have avoided the flu vaccination.
M C
Greensboro
Some years ago I got my flu shot at a local Walmart. Within 30 minutes my upper arm was hurting and sore. Before I left the store my entire arm was hurting and it also hurt to raise my arm.. Later that night my shoulder and arm continued to hurt, and for the next several days my joints and muscles were aching and I felt sick.
I have never had a reaction to any flu shot except this one. My docs said I didn’t get the flu from the shot and that I probably had something going on but I definitely was not sick before I had the shot. I never went back to Walmart for a flu shot. This year’s shot at my doctor’s office was a little tender and itchy around the injection site but no other reaction. I have not had full-blown flu since 1999 when I did not take the shot. I believe the flu shot prevents me getting the flu and will continue to get them.
Dan M
Raleigh
I am in my mid fifties and for the past several years I have experienced intermittent idiopathic pain and limited flexibility in my left shoulder. It has gotten bad enough for me to see a doctor, and the problem sometimes lasts for weeks before clearing up on it’s own. I just had a flu shot and get one every year in my left shoulder. I usually experience soreness at the injection site for a couple of days, but that’s all. If my first experience with my shoulder problem arose after my vaccination I would probably think the shot had something to do with it but there has never really been a correlation.
Vickie
NC
I got the flu shot for people over 65 (4 times strength) this year. I had swelling, redness and pain for several days. Fortunately all that went away but i will be getting the regular dose from now on. This is the first time in 20 plus years that i had a bad reaction. I think it was the excessive dose.
Francine
North Carolina
About six years ago, I received my last flu shot since it resulted in my having a very sore upper arm for about five months. It was given in the office of my company’s insurance agent who had arranged for a “flu shot clinic.” This was the only time I have ever experienced ongoing paining after receiving an injection. Last year I had injections for both the pneumonia vaccine and a tetanus booster without any discomfort.
Sharon
Raleigh, Nc
I have always gotten a flu shot and had no problems with it. Last year was a different story. My arm hurt for several weeks afterwards to the point that I made a note on this year’s calendar reminding me to NOT get the shot. I would rather be sick for a few days than hurt like that for weeks.
Helen
Florida
For almost a week after I have my annual shot, I feel as if someone punched me in the arm, and this is no matter who gives me the shot. I had the quad shot the year before last and had a horrible reaction and got the flu anyway. My doctor told me she stopped giving the quad.
Fran
Dallas, Texas
Last year my husband and I got flu shots at the pharmacy because we were there getting prescriptions and it seemed the easiest thing to do. So much for easy! I have had problems with my left shoulder (the arm in which I received the shot) ever since. However, I am not sure it was the injection site. I think it may have been the vaccine itself. I have been taking flu shots for many years and have never had this problem before. However, the shots before last year were delivered by nurses. My husband complains of pain in his shoulder, but that even before the shot, so I do not know whether it was the shot or not. How does one take care of this? Should I be in therapy? I am 80 years old and otherwise in excellent health.
Carol
Greensboro, NC
I, too, had such long lasting shoulder pain with a flu shot a few years ago and finally had to go to an orthopedic doctor thinking something was really wrong. His theory was the shot had been given too high. A shot of predisone helped me through this bad time. I now caution whoever is giving the shot and all has been fine.
Janet
Houston, TX
TO H.I.S. from the UK. The lump you are experiencing after the flu shot may be a trauma tumor. I had a spinal tap and when they removed the tap I felt a lump. I wanted it removed and I was told it was just a trauma tumor and not to worry about it. Two years after I asked for it to be first removed i twas and it turns out the “trauma” tumor was malignant. At the very least i would get the lump biopsied if not totally removed.
Margaret
St. Louis, MO
I experienced some soreness, lasting a few days, after my flu shot last fall.
Over last winter, I also experienced two separate bouts with the flu — respiratory problems, fever spanning several days, body aches, fatigue.
Sharon
Ga.
I also received a bad flue shot several years ago and was with an orthopedic doctor and in PT. I am also a retired nurse and agree that the problem is in the location the shot is given–lets be sure to continue getting our flue shots but, let a nurse who does lots of them!
Mary
Beaumont, TX
I, too, had trouble with a flu shot this year. Usually I never feel a thing, but the woman who did my injection (I went to the doctor’s office, thinking they would be more trained) also put the needle very high on my arm. It hurt going in, and I yelped, something I’ve never done before. By the next day, the arm was very sore and I, too, had limited movement, and pain if I lifted my arm. It lasted for months; almost the whole year, but seems to be almost normal again. But now it is time for another flu shot, and this year I don’t know what to do! I live in a retirement facility, and don’t wish to get the flu–but I don’t want to go through that again!
A.X.
East Coast
I once had a flu shot and my arm/shoulder hurt for over a month. But now I don’t get them anymore (I know, total heresy!) because I read the Cochrane Review report on their efficacy, and their studies revealed that these shots are not as effective as they’re made out to be (by govts and health agencies) and that the evidence did not support widespread vaccination campaigns. I make more efforts to stay healthy than most people do (wash hands a lot, stay a few feet away from sick people I encounter, exercise, eat well, etc.), and most years I don’t get the flu, while friends who got the shot do. Last year I did get sick, but colleagues at work were out for a week or two and I started feeling “off” on a Saturday, was down for the count on Sunday (but not taking anything — I let the fever rage because that’s your immune system fighting it), but back at work on Monday, tired and kind of slow, but not really sick anymore. Then I just went to bed earlier the rest of the days that week, and that was it. I know there will be the usual serious hype about everyone needing to get one, but I respect the Cochrane group a lot.
Heather
Australia
I am allergic to vaccines last flue vax gave me Stevens Johnson Syndrome. Burns and hives all over burn my lungs and organs too. In hospital 3 months. Never a vax again
Some company here is making Relenza if you get flu cuts it short to 3 days. Like an asthma puffer.
Sambucol immune support syrup and tablets help if u get flu. Vitamin C + zinc
Jennifer Pierce
Winston-Salem NC
I had a shoulder injury recently from the pneumonia vaccine when the nurse gave it to me on top of my shoulder in the bony area. By afternoon, I couldn’t lift my arm and the pain was excruciating. I took some motrin and emailed the Dr. She said, “I’m sorry. We might have to check the titres to see if the vaccine took since it is problematic if given too high.” I suggested she needed to train her nurse on how to give the shot. I have noticable biceps and triceps from doing PUMP classes and she still missed the right place! It took about 4-5 days for the pain to lessen and for me to be able to lift my arm again. I had this also happen years ago from a flu shot but the pain didn’t last as long. I have observed that it is usually tall nurses who tower over me especially when I’m sitting since I am only 5′ 2″. So annoying.