What Is Parsonage-Turner Syndrome—And Why Does It Qualify for Compensation?

Parsonage-Turner Syndrome is not just shoulder pain. It’s a disabling neurological condition caused by inflammation of the brachial plexus—a bundle of nerves that runs from the spinal cord through the upper arm. For many, it begins with sharp pain in the shoulder, followed by sudden muscle weakness, reduced mobility, and in severe cases, even long-term muscle control loss in the affected arm. When PTS appears after vaccine administration, especially in individuals who recently received a flu vaccine, it may qualify as a vaccine injury. The federal government recognizes this condition—typically diagnosed as brachial neuritis—as a compensable outcome in vaccine claims.

How It Happens: Immune Response and Nerve Damage

The leading theory behind post-vaccine PTS is an overactive immune response triggered by the shot itself. The body mistakenly attacks the brachial plexus nerves, damaging the pathways that carry signals from the brain to the muscles. This is why PTS is classified as a rare neurological condition, often resulting in nerve damage, weakness, and sharp burning pain. These adverse reactions are well-documented in federal vaccine claims, especially following certain vaccines.

Common Symptoms That May Point to PTS

People who’ve developed PTS report sharp pain, followed by loss of muscle strength, visible shoulder atrophy, or inability to lift their affected arm. Over time, this leads to decreased range of motion, reduced muscle control, and difficulty performing everyday tasks. These other symptoms often cause confusion during diagnosis, as PTS is sometimes mistaken for routine shoulder injury related to strain or poor posture.

Which Vaccines Are Most Commonly Involved?

While PTS can follow different triggers, we’ve seen it most often after the flu vaccine. Cases have also appeared after vaccination with certain vaccines tied to inflammatory responses. The CDC lists brachial neuritis as a known risk after tetanus-containing vaccines, which are part of many routine immunizations. We’ve represented vaccine injury clients with vaccine reactions and other vaccine injuries who developed sudden pain and weakness within days or weeks of their shots.

Treatment Costs and Why Compensation Matters

PTS can take months—or even years—to recover from. Treatment includes nonsteroidal anti inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and sometimes nerve-targeted injections or surgical consultation. In severe cases, where muscle function does not return, patients may face even paralysis or lifelong disability. That’s why accurate diagnosis, early intervention, and legal recognition of the injury matter.

• Physical therapy: $150–$300/week

• Occupational therapy: $100–$200/week

• Long-term medication: $2,000–$5,000/year

• Missed work during flare-ups: hundreds to thousands in lost wages

• Ongoing care for chronic weakness: $10,000+ annually in serious cases

These costs are recoverable through the Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. If your condition is linked to a covered vaccine, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and future care.

If you've developed Parsonage-Turner Syndrome after vaccination, our attorneys will help you file a vaccine injury claim and recover compensation through the federal program.

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