Wondering whether you’ve experienced a rotator cuff injury? Diagnosing and treating injuries to the rotator cuff is vital for achieving the best recovery results. At Lancaster Orthopedic Group in Lancaster, Dr. Michael Bercik and our team help residents move from diagnosis through to recovery in minimal time. We understand the need to get back to your daily life, and we are dedicated to helping patients return to the activities they love.

Dr. Michael Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a specialization in conditions of the shoulder and elbow. He began his career at Georgetown University, where he graduated Magna Cum Laude. Following this accomplishment, he was accepted into Rutgers New Jersey Medical School where he was inducted into the Alpha Omega Alpha National Medical Society. He then completed his residency at the Rothman Institute, and followed this by completing three fellowships to specialize in treating shoulder and elbow conditions.

When it comes to the shoulder and elbow, there is nobody more dedicated to his patients than Dr. Bercik. He has spent years learning the latest science and evidence-based methods, so you can feel confident you are being treated with state-of-the-art techniques.

How is rotator cuff tendonitis treated?

The goal of treatment for rotator cuff tendonitis is to reduce the swelling and inflammation in the joint. This is done alongside efforts to increase strength and improve range of motion of the area.

Typical treatments first include nonsurgical options, such as:

• Resting the area
• Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (ex: ibuprofen)
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Ice or heat on the area as instructed by your orthopedic doctor
• Physical therapy

How is a rotator cuff tear treated?

Mild rotator cuff tears are generally first treated by nonsurgical methods. This includes taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroid injections to the area, and physical therapy, among other nonsurgical methods. When tears are more severe, surgery often becomes the recommended treatment.

When surgery is chosen as the recommended mode of treatment, arthroscopic surgery is generally performed. This method of surgery is minimally invasive and has quicker recovery times than traditional open surgery. When there are large or complicated complete tears of the rotator cuff, an open surgery may be the best option for an optimal recovery.

How long is recovery after a rotator cuff injury?

For rotator cuff tendonitis, it generally takes about two to four weeks to heal. However, if rotator cuff tendonitis is not treated quickly, it can lead to a rotator cuff tear.

For a partial or complete rotator cuff tear, symptoms can last for several weeks up to several months depending on the severity of the injury and how quickly treatment was started.

When should I see a doctor for a rotator cuff tear?

As soon as you experience pain, weakness, or limited mobility, you should consult a doctor. This is also true for any symptoms that begin to affect your daily life, including sleep. Other symptoms to indicate you should see a doctor include trouble performing normal movements, or swelling, redness, or tenderness around the joint.

Ready to Begin?

When it comes to treating rotator cuff injuries, sooner is better than later. Healing the rotator cuff is vital for comfortable movement and the ability to perform the activities you love. For residents of Lancaster, PA, Dr. Michael Bercik and our team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group can help you understand your injury and begin the road to recovery. To schedule your first appointment, use the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or call (866) 564-1000.