Vaccines save lives by preventing disease. Most people who get vaccines have no serious problems. Vaccines, like any medicines, can cause side effects, but most are very rare and very mild. Some health problems that follow vaccinations are not caused by vaccines. In very rare cases, a vaccine can cause a serious problem, such as nerve damage.
Vaccines such as the COVID shot, flu shot, or the tetanus shot can cause serious nerve injuries such as Parsonage-Turner Syndrome (also known as Brachial Neuritis), Ulnar Neuropathy, and Guillain-Barre Syndrome
Ulnar Neuropathy is a disorder caused by damage to the ulnar nerve. This damage will result in numbness and tingling down the arm into the pinky and ring fingers. In addition, grip weakness, hand coordination, and finger coordination can be affected. Similarly, Parsonage-Turner Syndrome (also known as Brachial Neuritis), can manifest itself as shoulder pain and weakness or pain and weakness of elbow or hand function.
To make this diagnosis, you need an expert in the field of peripheral nerve disorder, such as Dr. Spiess. At Pittsburgh Hand and Nerve, we will perform a thorough exam, and order the proper studies to make this difficult and devastating diagnosis.
In recognition of the nerve damage induced by vaccines, the US Federal Government has set up the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP) This program has been designed to provide financial compensation to individuals who file a petition and are found to have been injured by a VICP-covered vaccine. Even in cases in which such a finding is not made, petitioners may receive compensation through a settlement.
Make an appointment with Dr. Spiess today to find out if your nerve damage qualifies for the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program (VICP).