Residents of Millersville, PA, looking for an experienced orthopedic shoulder surgeon should look no further than Dr. Michael Bercik at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. With years of international experience and a specialty in conditions of the shoulder, Dr. Bercik offers advanced orthopedic techniques and state-of-the-art care to all patients.

Shoulder Doctor Millersville, PADr. Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who specializes in shoulder surgery, elbow surgery, and shoulder traumatology. To advance his skillset in this specialty, Dr. Bercik completed two international fellowships specifically focused on conditions of the shoulder and elbow. He studied under Dr. Gilles Walch at the Centre Orthopédique Santy in France, widely considered to be one of the most influential shoulder surgeons in the world. 

Dr. Bercik also studied under Professor Simon Bell at the Melbourne Shoulder and Elbow Centre and Monash University, further developing advanced techniques in shoulder surgery to bring back to the United States and offer patients right here at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. Dr. Michael Bercik is dedicated to continuing to advance his knowledge in orthopedics to ensure patients experience minimal recovery times with outstanding results. 

How long is recovery time for older adults who experience a shoulder injury?

The recovery time for shoulder injuries in older adults can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the patient’s overall health and medical history. In general, older adults may require a longer recovery period than younger adults due to a decreased ability to heal and recover from injury.

For example, recovery from a rotator cuff tear can take several months, with the first 6-12 weeks being focused on managing pain and inflammation and avoiding further injury to the shoulder. Physical therapy may begin early in the recovery process to help restore strength and flexibility to the shoulder, and may continue for several months after the injury to ensure optimal recovery.

Recovery from a shoulder fracture can also take several months, with older adults being at a higher risk of complications such as decreased mobility, weakness, and decreased bone density. Surgery may be required in some cases, which can further extend the recovery time.

Recovery from other shoulder injuries such as shoulder impingement, arthritis, and bursitis may be more variable, depending on the severity of the condition and the effectiveness of treatment. In general, older adults may require longer recovery times due to the slower healing process and decreased ability to tolerate physical therapy and exercise.

It is important for older adults with shoulder injuries to work closely with a healthcare provider, including a shoulder specialist, to develop an appropriate treatment plan and realistic expectations for recovery time. With appropriate treatment and diligent rehabilitation, many older adults can regain function and improve their quality of life after a shoulder injury.

Let’s work together!

There is no time like the present to begin your rehabilitation journey to improve your shoulder movement and quality of life. Schedule your first appointment with Dr. Bercik and our shoulder doctor team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. To get started, please click the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or call (866) 564-1000.