Why is My Shoulder Sore After COVID-19 Vaccine?
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Benefits of COVID -19 Vaccine
The primary reason to get a COVID-19 vaccine, regardless of brand, is that research has shown it is highly effective at preventing COVID-19 infection. The COVID -19 vaccine is a way to develop protection within your body or immunity to the virus. A vaccine is an important tool to reduce the spread of the virus and to finally end the pandemic.
Why is the COVID-19 Vaccine Injected into the Shoulder?
The deltoid muscle has an excellent blood supply that helps spread the vaccine in the body.
The COVID-19 Vaccine is an Intermuscular Injection or IM. The means that it is injected into muscle tissue. The shoulder has a large group of muscles called the deltoid. Unlike other areas of the body, The deltoid muscle has an excellent blood supply that helps spread the vaccine in the body. Muscle cells such as the deltoid also contain immune cells that basically capture the vaccine. These COVID -19 cells then flow to the lymph system, which is like a large gathering place for the immune system.
Why Does My Shoulder Hurt After the Vaccine?
COVID-19 vaccine can cause inflammation into the tissue at the injection site.
The COVID-19 vaccine can cause inflammation into the tissue at the injection site. This is a good sign that the COVID-19 vaccine is actually doing what it should do to build up immunity in your body. If your shoulder discomfort continues, you should consult with your physician.
What are some of the Side-Effects of the COVID-19 Injection?
Common side effects of COVID -19 at the injection site
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
Common side effects of the whole body.
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Chills
- Fever
What Should I Do if I Think I Have a Reaction after a COVID -19 Injection?
Adverse reactions to the COVID-19 vaccine are extremely rare. When you go get your injection, you can expect to wait at the site 15 to 30 minutes after you receive the shot. This is an extra safety measure to make sure you do not have an immediate reaction.
Contact your primary care doctor in the unlikely case that you have:
- Redness or tenderness at the injection site gets worse after 24hrs.
- If your side effects are worrying you or are not getting better after a few days.
- The most critical side effect is a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis. This should be considered a medical emergency. If you believe you have a severe reaction, you should call 911. This type of adverse reaction to the COVID-19 vaccine is rare.
Should I Use Ice or Heat to Relieve Arm Soreness After the Vaccine?
- Ice or cold compresses should be used for the first 24-48 hrs.
- As symptoms ease, then you can use moist heat/hot shower until stiffness subsides.
- Do not apply heat if swelling remains at the injection site.
What Exercise Can I Do to Relieve My Arm Soreness After Receiving the COVID-19 Vaccine?
Simple stretching and active arm movements are key to alleviating your arm soreness, such as:
Table slides
Place your hand on a table and gently slide it forward until your arm is extended. Repeat 10-20 times
Table slide starting position
Table slide ending position
Posterior capsule stretch
Grab your elbow and pull your arm across the front of your body. Hold 20 seconds 3 times.
Posterior capsule stretch
Pendulums
Lean forward and let the arm hang, gently rock your body side and back to front. Repeat 20 times.
Wall slides
Place your hand on the wall slide your arm up the wall as high as you can. Repeat 10 times.
Wall slide starting position
Wall slide ending position
Also if you have recently had a shoulder surgery watch our video on How to Properly Put on an UltraSling 4 or Dressing the Upper Body After an Injury or Surgery
Book an Appointment with The Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute Today!
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To make appointments with JOI Rehab, please call 904-858-7045.