Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA) can occur when a vaccine is improperly administered into or near the subacromial bursa or synovium, potentially causing persistent pain and limited range of motion.

On May 14, 2026, a study was published in Pharmacoepidemiology and Drug Safety reviewing shoulder injuries using the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program’s definition for SIRVA. This study examined reports of atypical shoulder pain and dysfunction submitted to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS) between January 1, 2018, and October 31, 2022.

What Did the Study Find?

The researchers found that adult females accounted for 74% of serious reports identified as potential SIRVA cases. The study also found that vaccination “too high” in the arm was a reported contributing factor in 68% of these cases. Additionally, 64% of the serious reports described interference with daily activities, inability to perform daily activities, and/or missed work.

A review of cases over the past decade filed by Hultquist Law, found that 70% of the firm’s SIRVA clients were women, a finding that parallels the 2026 study’s results. If you believe you have suffered a shoulder injury following a vaccination, contact Hultquist Law, P.C. to discuss your case.