When it comes to elbow injuries and conditions requiring surgery, residents of Reading, PA can trust the expertise of Dr. Michael Bercik, a renowned orthopedic elbow surgeon. With his extensive training, experience, and commitment to patient care, Dr. Bercik provides comprehensive treatment options for various elbow conditions, helping patients regain function and improve their quality of life.

The right candidate for elbow surgery is typically someone who has tried conservative treatments for their elbow condition but has not experienced significant improvement in their symptoms. Surgery is often considered when non-surgical methods, such as rest, physical therapy, medications, and injections, have not provided satisfactory relief or when the condition is severe and significantly affecting the individual’s quality of life.

Here are some factors that may indicate that you are a suitable candidate for elbow surgery:

1. Persistent Pain: Surgery may be recommended if you continue to experience chronic or debilitating pain in the elbow despite conservative treatments. The pain may be affecting daily activities, work, or sports performance.
2. Limited Function: When the elbow’s range of motion is severely restricted, making it difficult to perform basic tasks or participate in activities that require normal arm movement, surgery may be considered to restore function.
3. Structural Damage: If diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays, MRI scans, or arthroscopy, reveals significant structural damage to the bones, tendons, ligaments, or cartilage in the elbow joint, surgical intervention may be necessary to repair or reconstruct the damaged tissues.
4. Failed Conservative Treatments: If you have attempted non-surgical treatments, including rest, physical therapy, medications, and injections, without providing satisfactory relief or functional improvement, surgery may be the next step.
5. Traumatic Injuries: In cases of severe elbow fractures, dislocations, or ligament tears resulting from trauma, surgery is often required to realign and stabilize the bones or repair the damaged ligaments.
6. Chronic Conditions: Certain chronic conditions, such as arthritis or degenerative joint disease, may progress to where surgical intervention becomes necessary to alleviate pain, restore function, and improve the individual’s quality of life.

It’s important to note that the decision to undergo elbow surgery is highly individual and should be made in consultation with an experienced orthopedic surgeon like Dr. Bercik. He will thoroughly evaluate your medical history, conduct a physical examination, review imaging results, and discuss surgery’s potential risks and benefits. He will also consider overall health, lifestyle, goals, and expectations to determine if surgery is the most appropriate course of action.

Recovery after elbow surgery varies based on the procedure and individual circumstances. Rest and immobilization promote healing, followed by physical therapy to restore strength and range of motion. Following postoperative guidelines is essential for successful recovery. Dr. Bercik and the team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group offer personalized care and comprehensive treatment plans. Their commitment to open communication ensures patients are involved in decisions and understand the surgical process and recovery. You will receive exceptional support throughout the surgical journey, from consultation to follow-up.

Schedule Your Surgical Consultation Today

If you need an orthopedic elbow surgeon in Reading, PA, Dr. Michael Bercik is the trusted choice. With his expertise, advanced surgical techniques, and dedication to patient care, he will guide you through the surgical journey and help you regain optimal elbow function and mobility. Contact Lancaster Orthopedic Group at (866) 564-1000 or online to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free elbow.