Residents of Lancaster, PA, who are looking for a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon should look no further than Dr. Michael Bercik at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. With a specialization in shoulder and elbow conditions, Dr. Bercik can effectively treat complex conditions of the upper extremities with minimal pain and downtime for patients.

Dr. Michael Bercik is the son of an orthopedic surgeon and grew up learning the importance of high-quality patient care in addition to mastering advanced treatment techniques. Dr. Bercik ensures every patient feels in control of their care and is aware of every step of their recovery plan. By fostering these relationships, patients feel more comfortable asking questions and discussing concerns during the process.

To learn methods outside of his traditional training, Dr. Bercik completed two international fellowships. These fellowships were under a few of the most influential shoulder surgeons in the world, and Dr. Bercik has been able to bring these techniques to his practice in the United States to ensure patients have the best options available. As technology continues to develop, orthopedic medicine develops with it. We are committed to continually learning and incorporating the latest science into our treatment plans to provide our patients with the best care available.

Tennis Elbow Frequently Asked Questions

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that affects the outside tendons of the elbow joint. As can be assumed by the name, this injury is common in tennis players but can also result from some daily activities. Tennis elbow is a type of tendonitis of the elbow that affects the soft tissues in charge of wrist and finger extension and control of the forearm. This type of control is necessary for tennis players to control their tennis racket grip and hit the ball with accuracy.

Tennis elbow is characterized by weak grip strength and an uncomfortable sensation in the outside of the elbow (often described as a burning or sore sensation).

How is Tennis Elbow Caused?

Tennis elbow is caused when the wrists and fingers are continually extended and used, causing tiny tears in the tendons of the forearm to form. This leads to the development of tennis elbow. Tennis elbow is known as lateral epicondylitis, caused by damage to the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB). The ECRB is a forearm muscle that stabilizes the wrist when the arm is outstretched (think wrist stabilization when a tennis player outstretches their arm to hit a tennis ball).

What Activities Cause Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is commonly caused by having a poor grip while playing racket sports, but many different activities can cause it. Injuries are most common over the age of 30.

Everyday activities leading to tennis elbow include:

• Sports such as tennis, racquetball, squash, swimming, or golf
• Excessive typing
• Yardwork
• Weightlifting
• Using a computer mouse
• Knitting
• Occupations that involve frequent lifting or gripping such as butcher, carpenter, cook, office worker, painter, auto worker, or plumber

Join Us Today!

Dr. Bercik, a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon, and our team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group welcome patients of all ages, backgrounds, and experiences. We are highly skilled in a wide range of shoulder and elbow conditions and can help you achieve your best quality of life. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bercik, please click the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or call (866) 564-1000.