severe pain in upper arm and shoulder continues after ten days of having tetanus

[soos2559]

Had a tetanus shot ten days ago due to a severe cut in right hand requiring stitches...also have fibromyalgia...since then, after a couple days of minor aches, severe onset of pain in right upper arm and shoulder. Haven't been able to sleep or find any relief. Dr. put me on prednisone, and percocet, have been on prednisone for four days and beginning to decrease my dose...find little relief with percocet 7.5/500 taking 1 every six hours, will run out tomorrow. Am really beginning to worry and become weary with all this pain. Stitched area healing fine with no signs of infection. Have limited function in the right arm which leaves me helpless as this is my dominant side. Any suggestions?


This discussion is related to Brachial neuritis following tetanus, plus drooping shoulder?.

[Dee1956]

This was very helpful, thank you both  It gives me places to look.

There is another very long post under "undiagnosed symptoms" forum and many people are having very similar pain.
I am trying to find help for pain in upper arm right about where you would receive a shot as well as upper shoulder.
I can not reach behind me at all without severe shoulder pain, can't sleep on my side without horrible arm pain.
Thanks again

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

Well, without a detailed description of the symptoms or a detailed clinical evaluation it would be difficult to comment specifically on the situation, the pain could be related to infections, inflammation, injuries to muscles/ ligaments/ tendons, neuro-muscular causes, vascular issues, increased compartment pressure etc. If the symptoms do not seem to get better in a week or two, I would suggest considering a review with your treating orthopedician for an evaluation of secondary issues and for suggestion of an appropriate management plan.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!