Shoulder instability is a common yet complex shoulder condition that can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Dr. Michael Bercik is a highly skilled orthopedic surgeon near Lebanon, NJ, specializing in shoulder conditions and focusing on treating shoulder instability. He combines advanced surgical techniques with tailored rehabilitation plans to ensure comprehensive care. His approach emphasizes patient education and personalized treatment to restore function and prevent future injuries.

What is Shoulder Instability?

Shoulder instability occurs when the shoulder joint is forced out of its normal position, leading to pain, discomfort, and an increased risk of dislocation. This condition can be the result of a traumatic injury, repetitive overhead motions, or a congenital predisposition, making the shoulder susceptible to slipping out of place. It manifests in various forms, from a subtle feeling of looseness (subluxation) to a complete dislocation, where the ball of the upper arm bone comes entirely out of the shoulder socket.

Symptoms of Shoulder Instability

Symptoms of shoulder instability can vary widely among patients, but they typically revolve around discomfort and dysfunction in the shoulder joint. Commonly, individuals may experience ongoing pain that persists over time, significantly impacting daily life and activities. This pain is often accompanied by a sensation of the shoulder being loose or as if it might easily pop out of place, leading to uncertainty and weakness in the joint.

For many, these symptoms result in a noticeable decrease in the ability to perform everyday tasks or movements that involve the shoulder, such as lifting objects or reaching overhead. The shoulder may feel particularly unstable when attempting to move it in certain directions, causing apprehension or avoidance of specific activities.

Patients might endure recurrent shoulder dislocation in more acute instances of shoulder instability. These dislocations occur when the ball of the upper arm bone (humerus) completely exits the shoulder socket (glenoid), causing immediate and severe pain and a noticeable deformity of the shoulder area until the joint is put back into place. Each dislocation episode can exacerbate the damage to the ligaments, tendons, and muscles around the shoulder, further compromising its stability and function.

Exploring Treatment Options with Dr. Bercik

Dr. Bercik advocates for a customized approach to treatment, recognizing that the best strategy varies significantly depending on the patient’s specific circumstances, lifestyle, and aspirations. His treatment methodologies encompass:

• Conservative Management: For many, initial treatment may involve measures such as rest and anti-inflammatory medications to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. This pathway focuses on natural healing and strengthening of the shoulder joint without immediate recourse to surgical intervention.
• Surgical Intervention: In instances where conservative management does not yield the desired results or in cases of significant anatomical damage, Dr. Bercik may recommend surgery. Specializing in minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery, Dr. Bercik aims to repair or reconstruct damaged tissues, restoring the shoulder joint’s stability and function.

Let’s Work Together

Shoulder instability is a condition that demands specialized attention and care. In Lebanon, PA, patients under Dr. Bercik’s care benefit from his extensive expertise, compassionate approach, and commitment to excellence in orthopedic medicine. By prioritizing patient education and active involvement in the treatment process, Dr. Bercik ensures that individuals are well-informed and empowered to make decisions that align with their recovery goals. Please call 717.560.4200 or request an appointment online to start recovering from shoulder instability today.