Whether you’ve been battling shoulder pain for years or have suffered a recent injury, an orthopedic shoulder specialist can help diagnose the root of your condition and lead you down the best path for optimal recovery. Residents of Lancaster, PA, should look no further than Dr. Michael J Bercik and our team for their shoulder specialist needs at our Lancaster location.

Dr. Michael J Bercik has been awarded the Mark D Chilton award for outstanding patient care and the annual Orthopaedic In-training examination award in recognition of his expertise. Not only is Dr. Bercik recognized for his attention to patients and exceptional work, but he has completed two international fellowships specializing in shoulder and elbow conditions.

Dr. Bercik has had the unique opportunity to work under internationally renowned shoulder surgeons and learn their expert techniques and “tricks of the trade.” We are dedicated to bringing the best shoulder care in the world to our patients, and many Lancaster residents trust us to provide the highest quality care and evidence-based methods in shoulder specialty care.

Shoulder Sprains and Strains: What is the Difference?

Shoulder strains and sprains are two of the most common shoulder injuries. But what is the difference?

Shoulder Sprains

The acromioclavicular joint is the joint that includes the acromion (bony projection at the top of the shoulder blade) and the collarbone. Shoulder sprains often refer to injury of this joint, which is when the ligaments involved in stabilizing this joint are stretched or torn.

When these ligaments cannot support the shoulder joint, the bones in the joint can separate, and the shoulder can become dislocated.

Shoulder sprains are classified in grades 1-6. Grade 1 includes the ligaments stretching slightly or minor tears and typically only leads to minor swelling. Grade 2 sprains involve ligament tears and more intense pain and swelling. In Grade 3 sprains, the joint becomes completely separated, and the collarbone becomes dislocated. This leads to intense bruising, swelling, and pain. Grades 4-6 are must less common and involve more severe dislocations and symptoms.

Shoulder sprains are typically caused by shoulder trauma, either from a fall, collision, or car accident.

Shoulder Strains

Shoulder strains, in comparison with shoulder strains, are tearing or stretching of the muscles or tendons in the shoulder. Injury to these muscles and tendons can be caused by poor posture, holding awkward positions for long periods, and playing certain sports.

Sports such as tennis and swimming can increase the likelihood of shoulder strains. For both strains and sprains, a healing time of around 6-8 weeks is common. There are both surgical and non-surgical methods of treatment, depending on the severity of the injury.

Get Started Now

The shoulder is a complex joint, and it is crucial to ensure any advice or treatment comes from a trained orthopedic specialist. Dr. Bercik and our team in Lancaster, PA, can help you understand your condition and choose the optimal path for recovery. To schedule an appointment, please click the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or call (866) 564-1000.