Get a Shot

Getting a shot is not easy but here are some tips to ease the pain.

Steps

Tell the doctor that you want to say 1, 2, 3, and then have him or her give you the shot. (You are, however, less receptive to pain if you not waiting for it, so this may not be the best idea)
Avoid looking at the needle at all costs, especially as the injection is taking place. Do not look at the tray or table where the supplies are stored.
Completely relax the arm before the shot. Practice dropping your shoulder and lightly pressing your elbow against your waist in order to relax the Deltoid muscle. Not only will it hurt less during, but your arm will feel better sooner.
Take a deep breath immediately before the shot, and exhale slowly during.
Immediately afterwards, move your arm around to get the muscle moving. Repeat this often in the following hours and days, as it promotes blood flow and healing.
Get a drink of water before or after you get the shot because that will help if you're not feeling well. Tylenol or Advil may help with pain afterwards.
When you leave, warn your family that you got the shot so they do not play rough with you.
Get your doctor to prescribe Emla cream to you and apply it before getting the shot to numb the area.
Remember that shots are not all that bad! They are just a quick pinch that you barely feel. The more you tense up and worry about the pain, the worse it will be.

Tips

Try to squeeze something when you get the shot.
Try to look at something and concentrate on it while you get the shot
Ask the doctor to give you the shot in the arm you write with. The soreness will be less the more you move it around.
If you expect that you will be anxious before the shot, go to the gym. A good workout will use up some of the adrenaline and leave you relaxed.
Don't be afraid if you have to cry. Especially if you are afraid of them.

Warnings

Do not run away from the shot; it could be dangerous! Besides, you're going to have to get it eventually.
Don't kick the doctor
Remember, the shots are often far less painful than the diseases they protect you from.
If you workout before the shot, be sure to do it a hour before you receive it, as this could raise up your blood pressure, which could potentially be harmful for some people.
Don't curse because that will make you jump and the needle can break and might get stuck in you...