Seeking a reliable Shoulder Doctor near Sinking Spring, PA? Your search ends with Dr. Michael J Bercik and the experienced professionals at Lancaster Orthopedic. We pride ourselves on providing superior patient care and utilizing the most advanced shoulder treatment approaches to help our patients achieve the best results quickly.

Dr. Bercik is not only a talented surgeon but also an active contributor to research and academic pursuits within the field of orthopedics. His dedication to advancing the field is evidenced by his numerous publications in peer-reviewed scientific journals, as well as his contributions to book chapters. Born and raised in northern New Jersey as the son of an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Bercik was exposed to the field from a young age, which likely influenced his decision to pursue a career in orthopedic surgery.

Currently residing in Lancaster with his wife, two children, and their beloved dog, Dr. Bercik makes an effort to maintain a healthy work-life balance. He engages in regular jogging to stay active and enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends. As a dedicated sports fan, Dr. Bercik passionately supports his favorite football team, the New York Giants.

Understanding SLAP Tears: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Superior Labrum Anterior and Posterior (SLAP) tears are a type of shoulder injury that involves the labrum, a ring of cartilage surrounding the shoulder socket. SLAP tears can cause pain, instability, and decreased range of motion in the shoulder joint. In this blog post, we will discuss the causes and symptoms of SLAP tears, as well as the various treatment options available for this shoulder condition. Gaining knowledge about SLAP tears can help you better understand your shoulder health and guide you in seeking appropriate care if needed.

Causes of SLAP Tears

SLAP tears can occur due to various factors, including:

1. Trauma: A sudden, forceful impact to the shoulder, such as during a fall or a motor vehicle accident, can cause a SLAP tear.
2. Repetitive overhead movements: Athletes who participate in sports that require repetitive overhead motions, such as baseball, volleyball, and tennis, are at an increased risk for developing SLAP tears.
3. Heavy lifting: Lifting heavy objects or performing activities that involve forceful bicep contractions can contribute to the development of SLAP tears.
4. Age-related degeneration: As we age, the labrum can become more susceptible to wear and tear, increasing the likelihood of a SLAP tear.

Symptoms of SLAP Tears

The symptoms of a SLAP tear can vary in intensity and duration, but commonly include the following:

1. Shoulder pain, often worsened by overhead movements or lifting the arm
2. A catching or locking sensation in the shoulder
3. Decreased range of motion
4. Shoulder instability or a feeling of the shoulder “giving out”
5. Weakness in the shoulder and arm

Treatment Options for SLAP Tears

There are several treatment options available for managing SLAP tears, depending on the severity of the injury and the individual’s needs:

1. Conservative management: In many cases, conservative measures such as rest, ice, and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Physical therapy may also be prescribed to improve shoulder mobility, strengthen the muscles that support the joint, and address any muscle imbalances.
2. Corticosteroid injections: If conservative treatments are not effective, a healthcare provider may recommend a corticosteroid injection to help reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
3. Surgical intervention: In cases where conservative treatments have been unsuccessful or the SLAP tear is severe, surgery may be necessary. The most common surgical procedure for SLAP tears is arthroscopic labral repair, which involves using small instruments and a camera to visualize and repair the torn labrum.

Let’s Begin!

Begin your journey to pain-free shoulders with Dr. Bercik at Lancaster Orthopedic Group, serving Sinking Spring residents. To arrange your first appointment, simply click the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right section of our website or give us a call at (866) 564-1000.