Every time you raise your arm, you are using your rotator cuff. As you might imagine, its functionality is extremely important for many everyday activities. Damage, tendonitis, or pain in the rotator cuff can quickly lead to a decreased quality of life, which is why Dr. Michael Bercik and our orthopedic team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group in Lancaster, PA, have specialized in helping our patients recover from and prevent harmful conditions of the shoulder.

As a board-certified orthopedic shoulder surgeon, Dr. Michael Bercik has spent years specializing in ailments of the shoulder and elbow, including orthopedic traumatology. After completing his medical degree at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, he completed his residency at the Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, PA, before returning to Rutgers New Jersey Medical School for a fellowship specializing in orthopedic traumatology. Through this fellowship, he learned advanced techniques for treating acute fractures and post-traumatic complications such as nonunions, malunions, infections, and arthritis.

Following this fellowship, Dr. Bercik went on to expand his skillset in two international fellowships in France and Australia, learning under some of the most experienced shoulder surgeons in the world. After returning to the United States, Dr. Bercik has continued taking an active role in his profession, dedicating time to continuing to learn new techniques and perfecting methods to provide his patients with the best results.

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis: How Is It Diagnosed?

The first step to diagnosing rotator cuff tendonitis will likely involve discussing your medical history and current symptoms with your orthopedic doctor. Your doctor will look at metrics such as your current range of motion, your muscular strength, check for tenderness, and look for any deformity in the area. Your doctor will also likely look at surrounding structures and determine if there may be any other conditions present.

Following this, your doctor will likely take imaging tests to confirm the diagnosis. This often involves x-rays and MRIs. X-rays are used to look at the bones of the shoulder, while MRIs examine the soft tissues and can determine exactly what structures are being affected by your condition. Ultrasounds may also be used.

Rotator Cuff Tendonitis: Nonsurgical Treatment Options

Rotator cuff tendonitis is typically treated with nonsurgical treatment methods first. This typically involved rest, ice, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, physical therapy, and steroid injections if necessary. The goal of nonsurgical treatments is typically to reduce pain, decrease inflammation, and restore regular movement. Physical therapy typically focuses on improving range of motion, increasing strength, and alleviating any tightness in the area. If you perform daily activities that aggravate your tendonitis, your orthopedic doctor will work with you to develop a treatment plan to reduce stress in your daily life and help you return to the activities you love. Age, activity level, medical history, and overall health levels will contribute to your recommended treatment plan.

If nonsurgical treatments are unsuccessful, your orthopedic doctor may recommend surgical intervention. This will be specific to your symptoms and overall treatment progress.

Let’s Get Started!

Dr. Michael Bercik and our orthopedic team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group can help you identify the root cause of your symptoms and develop a plan to help you feel and move your best. If you are experiencing symptoms of rotator cuff tendonitis or another shoulder ailment and live in the Lancaster, PA area, schedule your first treatment appointment by using the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or calling (866) 564-1000.