Interested in reducing pain and improving movement in your shoulder? Look no further than Dr. Michael Bercik and our experienced team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. Whether you are experiencing a rotator cuff injury, shoulder arthritis, or shoulder degeneration, our team can help you start on the path to recovery.

Dr. Michael Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with years of specialization in treating ailments of the shoulder and elbow. Because of the complexity of the shoulder, we believe that the best care can be delivered when specific focus is given to learning the intricacies of this joint and treatment methods. When you come to us with your care needs, you can feel confident you are trusting a team of expert professionals who are committed to seeing you succeed.

Types of Rotator Cuff Injuries

Rotator cuff injuries are common, but the type of rotator cuff injury will depend on the origin of your condition. Generally, rotator cuff injuries are classified as either traumatic (acute) or chronic (ongoing). Traumatic injuries are more often the result of an identifiable cause, such as a collision in a sport or an automobile accident. Chronic injuries, on the other hand, often develop over time as a result of overuse or degeneration from aging or illness. Common types of rotator cuff injuries we see are:

Partial or complete tear: Tendons are soft tissues that connect muscle to bone. In the shoulder, these tendons connect to the “ball” of the humerus (upper arm bone) and stabilize the bone within the socket. Tearing of these tendons often happens with repetitive strain, such as from repeated motions when performing certain sports or professions. These tears can also develop from degradation over time due to aging, untreated tendonitis, or collisions. When you experience a torn rotator cuff, you are likely to experience weakness, limited motion, and pain. The pain may be especially apparent when lifting the arm overhead.

Shoulder Tendinitis: Tendinitis is caused by inflammation of the tendons in the rotator cuff. This is commonly found in athletes such as swimmers, tennis players, golfers, and volleyball players that have repeated overhead movements.

Shoulder Bursitis: Shoulder bursitis is caused by inflammation of the fluid-filled sacs, known as bursa, located between the rotator cuff tendons and shoulder joint.

Shoulder Impingement: If soft tissues making up the rotator cuff get caught on or rub against the shoulder bones, the tendons can become injured and inflamed. Over time, if not treated, this can lead to rotator cuff tears.

How Are Rotator Cuff Injuries Diagnosed?

 Rotator cuff injuries typically present symptoms such as pain, weakness, and limited mobility. This brings patients to schedule an appointment with their orthopedic shoulder doctor for an evaluation, which often leads to a diagnosis.

How Are Rotator Cuff Injuries Treated?

Rotator cuff injuries are treated in several ways, depending on your condition and the severity of your condition. Nonsurgical treatments are normally the first line of care, such as physical therapy, joint injections, rest, and medications. For more severe or persistent injuries, surgery may be needed to reduce symptoms and restore movements.

Ready to Begin?

Rotator cuff injuries can significantly limit your everyday activities, but an experienced shoulder doctor can quickly help to reduce symptoms from the source and restore movement abilities. To make your first appointment with Dr. Bercik and our team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group, click the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or call (866) 564-1000.