Flu season is approaching and Covid boosters are once again available. I am constantly surprised by the number of people who don’t know that there are things they can do to minimize or avoid arm soreness and feeling unwell after getting flu shots, covid boosters and other immunizations.

There are no guarantees in life, but you can dramatically increase the likelihood of feeling fine after an immunization by following these guidelines:

1. Don’t get an immunization if you are feeling unwell to begin with. Reschedule your appointment if possible to a time you are feeling better.

2. Take steps to eat extra healthy foods before and after getting your shot(s) and drink lots of water. A large percentage of our muscles and cells are made of water and will work better when we properly hydrate.

3. Get your shot in your dominant arm and move it A LOT afterwards. It doesn’t matter what you do or how you move, just move. Go for a walk, do an arm strength workout, massage the muscle. It all matters. The more you move, the better you’re going to feel.

4. Minimize your stress. Life can be hectic and we can’t always control what happens around us. What we can control is how we respond to it. Practice deep breathing and/or meditation after your shot.

5. Get your rest. Sleep is healing and your body will be able to process the immunization more effectively with a good night of sleep.

We’re lucky to have access to so many immunizations and for many of us, they’re really easy to get. The above guidelines will give you a better chance of minimizing your discomfort after getting shots.

Action Steps:

• If you haven’t done so already, schedule your flu or Covid booster at a time you know you can move afterwards and do your best to follow as many of the above guidelines as possible.

• Notice how much arm soreness you experience (if any) as a result.

• Expect to feel well physically after your shot and listen to what your body needs. We’re all different but we also have many similarities.