It's true that the shot will produce flu-like symptoms that you can expect to gradually get better over the next 6 months to a year. To ease some of that, take some Tylenol about 30 minutes before you take your shot. Also, if you can, try to take your shot at night, right before bed, so you can sleep off some of the effects.

As for the ISRs, you might try using an ice pack on the area before you take your shot. No more than 5 to 10 minutes. Don't massage the area after you take the shot. Just apply pressure to the area with a clean cotton ball. Following day, try to massage the area a little when you're in the shower. If it's still bad, you can also try to use the ice pack after you take your shot.

By the way, all of this will get better with time, so hang in there. Keep taking your medicine; one of the most important things I can tell you. If, in time, you feel like you're getting better, know that it's the medicine helping you and keeping you feeling that way; it's not a sign that you should be stopping your meds.

gl!