Residents of Mountville, PA, should look no further than Dr. Michael Bercik at Lancaster Orthopedic Group to find an experienced shoulder specialist in their area.

Dr. Michael Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic shoulder specialist who has spent years mastering state-of-the-art techniques and methods to help patients recover from complex acute and chronic injuries. At Lancaster Orthopedic Group, patients can expect individualized treatment plans utilizing creative methods to achieve outstanding results with minimal recovery time.

Tips for golfers: How to prevent shoulder injuries

Preventing shoulder injuries is much easier than rehabilitating shoulder injuries. While not always avoidable, taking the following steps can reduce the likelihood of shoulder injuries and help you avoid having to take time off due to pesky injuries.

Tip #1: Practice good form

Practicing with good form is key to preventing shoulder injuries. Repetitive stress on the shoulder from golf swings can lead to undue wear and tear on the shoulder, and poor form can lead to imbalances in the muscles and increased likelihood of injury. Improper form can be from a wear grip, swinging with too much force, using the wrong size club, or not using the proper swing or stance form. If you can, having your swing evaluated by a golf coach or sports physical therapist can ensure you are set up for success.

Tip #2: Use proper equipment

When you do not use the right sized club, it can force you to move your body in awkward ways or put increased stress on the shoulder. Make sure your club is the right length and weight for your needs. 

Tip #3: Take rest days

While golf may seem like a relaxing pastime, not taking time to rest between golfing sessions can increase your likelihood of injury. Pay attention to feelings of discomfort, fatigue, or weakness in your shoulders for signs you may not be taking enough rest days.

Common shoulder injuries in golfers

Even if you follow all precautions, shoulder injuries can happen. The best thing you can do in this case is visit a shoulder specialist as soon as possible and begin your path to recovery. The longer you wait to seek treatment, the longer recovery is likely to take. 

Common shoulder injuries seen in golfers include:

• Rotator cuff injuries: Rotator cuff injuries are common in golfers and can range from mild to severe. In general, at-home treatments are recommended as soon as possible to relieve discomfort and prevent progression of rotator cuff injuries. Rest, medication, and at-home stretching and strengthening exercises are often recommended. If needed, surgery can be the next step.
• Frozen shoulder: Frozen shoulder can cause stiffness in the shoulder for golfer’s and prevent people from practicing the sport comfortably. When this condition develops, anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy are typically recommended.
• Shoulder instability: Shoulder instability comes from ligaments stretching or tearing in the shoulder joint. This makes it more likely that the humeral head will shift out of place instead of remaining firmly in the shoulder socket. Physical therapy and, in some cases, surgery are often recommended to relieve instability.

Let’s work together!

Shoulder pain can significantly reduce your quality of life. For residents of Mountville, PA, looking for a shoulder specialist, schedule your first appointment today with Dr. Michael Bercik at Lancaster Orthopedic Group. You can schedule your appointment by using the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or calling (866) 564-1000.