If you live in Reading, PA, and are in need of an orthopedic elbow doctor, look no further than Dr. Michael Bercik. Dr. Bercik is an experienced board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. With a focus on shoulder and elbow conditions, as well as orthopedic traumatology and his extensive expertise and dedication to patient care, Dr. Bercik will guide you through every step of your recovery process.

Dr. Michael Bercik, recipient of the Mark D. Chilton award and highest score in his residency program, prioritizes exceptional patient care at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. He pursued extensive fellowships worldwide, training under esteemed surgeons and acquiring advanced techniques. With international experience at renowned institutions in Australia and France and a specialized U.S. fellowship, Dr. Bercik integrates modern and traditional approaches to develop innovative treatments. His dedication ensures patients feel confident and actively engaged in their personalized treatment plans, resulting in optimal outcomes.

Sports-Related Elbow Injuries

Sports-related elbow injuries pose significant challenges for athletes and individuals participating in physical activities. The elbow joint plays a vital role in facilitating arm movement, including bending and forearm rotation. Consequently, maintaining strong elbow health is crucial for optimal performance and injury prevention.

Athletes involved in sports such as tennis, golf, baseball, weightlifting, and contact sports are particularly susceptible to elbow injuries. The repetitive motions and high-impact forces exerted on the elbow joint during these activities can lead to various types of elbow injuries, including: tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis), pitcher’s elbow (ulnar collateral ligament injury), fractures and dislocations, and overuse injuries. 

Preventing Elbow Injuries 

To mitigate the risk of sports-related elbow injuries and maintain optimal elbow health, athletes and individuals should prioritize strengthening the muscles surrounding the elbow joint. Focusing on exercises that target the biceps and triceps can improve elbow functionality, enhance performance in sports, and facilitate everyday activities.

Proper warm-up and stretching routines are also essential to prepare the elbow joint and surrounding muscles for physical activity. Adequate rest and recovery periods are equally essential to prevent overuse injuries and allow the elbow to heal and regenerate.

There are several at-home exercises that can effectively strengthen the biceps and triceps muscles, including: 

1. Biceps Focused: Water bottle curls

• Hold a lightweight or full water bottle in your hand.
• Keep your upper arm against your side and your palm facing up.
• Bend your elbow, bringing your palm toward your shoulder.
• Gently lower your palm back to your side, returning your arm to a straight position.
• Repeat 10-20 repetitions on each arm.

1. Triceps Focused: Body lifts

• • Sit in a straight-backed chair with sturdy armrests, placing your feet flat on the floor.
  • Rest your hands on the armrests and exert pressure, lifting your bottom slightly off the chair.
  • Hold the lift for a count of 5 before slowly lowering yourself down.

• Repeat as able.

Let’s Work Together! 

Take the first step toward elbow injury and pain recovery by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Michael Bercik and the dedicated team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group in Reading, PA. We understand the impact elbow pain can have on your daily life, and our comprehensive consultation and personalized treatment plans will help you regain your quality of life. To make an appointment, click the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of our website or call (866) 564-1000.