After vaccination in the muscle of the upper arm, shoulder pain or painful movement of the arm may occur. These complaints usually disappear after a few days. But in rare cases, the symptoms last for weeks to months. This may be ‘shoulder injury related to vaccine administration’ (SIRVA). Due to the frequent vaccinations in the corona pandemic, it is important that general practitioners are extra alert to this.
SIRVA occurs when the vaccine is placed too high or too deep in the muscle of the upper arm. The underlying structures, including the bursa and tendons, can then become damaged and inflamed. The condition can develop after any type of vaccination, such as flu vaccination or corona vaccination. Anyone can get it, but it is more common in women, elderly patients and those with a slender build.
Persistent shoulder complaints
Within 48 hours, a patient with SIRVA will experience persistent shoulder pain and decreased arm movement. With an ultrasound or MRI, the complaints are often diagnosed as bursitis, tendonitis or frozen shoulder syndrome. The treatment of the complaints consists of taking sufficient rest, anti-inflammatory drugs and physiotherapy. Read more about SIRVA after vaccination here.
Advice for general practitioners
Be alert to SIRVA in patients with shoulder complaints that developed shortly after vaccination. Knowledge of the anatomy of the shoulder and proper injection technique can reduce the risk of SIRVA. For more information and for tips to prevent SIRVA, read the article in General Practitioner and Science.