Shoulder and Elbow Pain After Vaccination: When to Seek Orthopedic Care

Shoulder and neck issues, joints?

Hello Dr.
Wang, I am 56 years old.
After receiving my first dose of the BNT vaccine on October 19, 2021, I experienced discomfort in my left shoulder.
Later, I also began to have pain in my right elbow joint.
I initially thought this was a normal reaction after the vaccination, but due to the pandemic, I did not seek medical attention.
Several months have passed, and I still experience pain in my elbow joint, sometimes to the point where I cannot exert force.
The discomfort in my left shoulder has become more severe.
Recently, I noticed that I cannot raise my left arm high enough to touch my ear (as it is very painful, while I can do it with my right arm).
However, the pain in my right elbow has not improved.
Which specialty should I consult? Additionally, since I have been experiencing lower back pain after menopause in June 2021, should I include this in my consultation?

Lydia, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/01

Dr. Wang Shouji reply Orthopedics

Hello, generally speaking, vaccine reactions do not last that long.
Please visit the orthopedic clinic to check for any issues with your shoulder or elbow joints.
Changhua Hospital cares about your health.
Wang Shou-ji.

Reply Date: 2022/02/01

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort in your shoulder and elbow following your vaccination, which has persisted for quite some time. Given your symptoms, it is advisable to seek orthopedic care, particularly from a specialist who focuses on shoulder and elbow issues.
When it comes to post-vaccination pain, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience localized soreness at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few days. However, the persistence of pain in your shoulder and elbow, especially to the extent that it affects your range of motion and daily activities, warrants further evaluation.
Your description of the pain in your left shoulder, particularly the inability to lift your arm to ear level, suggests that there may be an underlying issue beyond typical post-vaccination soreness. Conditions such as rotator cuff injuries, bursitis, or even adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder) could be contributing to your symptoms. The pain radiating to your right elbow may also indicate a compensatory mechanism, where your body is altering movement patterns due to discomfort in the left shoulder, leading to strain on the elbow joint.

In terms of the timeline, since your symptoms have persisted for several months, it is crucial to seek medical attention. An orthopedic specialist will conduct a thorough physical examination and may recommend imaging studies, such as X-rays or an MRI, to assess the structures in your shoulder and elbow. This will help in diagnosing any potential injuries or conditions that may require treatment.

Additionally, you mentioned experiencing lower back pain and discomfort following menopause. While this may not be directly related to your shoulder and elbow pain, it is important to address all your symptoms during your visit. A comprehensive evaluation can help determine if there are any connections between your musculoskeletal pain and hormonal changes associated with menopause.
In summary, I recommend scheduling an appointment with an orthopedic specialist who can evaluate your shoulder and elbow pain. Be sure to mention all your symptoms, including the back pain, so that the physician can provide a holistic approach to your care. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes, and addressing these issues sooner rather than later is essential for your overall health and quality of life.

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