Shoulder specialists are able to treat complicated conditions in the shoulders while preserving the function and health of surrounding areas. Because of the complexity of the shoulder joint, patients experiencing discomfort in this area should seek the guidance of an experienced shoulder specialist to ensure they are on the right path to recovery. For residents of Sinking Spring, PA, Dr. Michael Bercik and the Lancaster Orthopedic Group team are here to provide expert care that encourages outstanding results. 

Dr. Michael Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who has dedicated his training to specializing in shoulder and elbow conditions. Following his residency training in orthopedic surgery, Dr. Bercik completed a domestic fellowship in orthopedic traumatology, before continuing his studies in world-renowned centers in Australia and France. Through these fellowships, Dr. Bercik was able to learn advanced techniques to enhance patient outcomes and minimize recovery times. The shoulder plays a crucial part in many of our everyday activities, and our team understands how important it is to get you back to full movement functionality as quickly as possible. 

Which doctors are best for shoulder and elbow pain?

Because of how often we use our arms, the shoulders and elbows are some of the most common locations of discomfort. These  joints are part of complex soft tissue structures, which creates more opportunities for overuse, strains, sprains, and tears. 

If you experience discomfort in these areas, you may be unsure of which doctor is best for you. In general, a shoulder specialist is the best choice for your medical professional because of their advanced knowledge of the specific structures involved in ailments of the shoulders and elbows. This can increase the likelihood of a correct diagnosis and lead to a more targeted recovery plan. When you meet with your shoulder specialist, you will be given several imaging exams and a physical examination to diagnose the source of your discomfort. Once these images and assessment results are reviewed, your shoulder specialist will discuss potential treatment options and which may be right for you.

When to seek medical help

A wide variety of ailments can occur in the shoulders and elbows, and whether you should seek medical care will depend on the severity of the ailment, the symptoms you experience, and lifestyle factors influencing your recovery time. Shoulder and elbow discomfort can develop over time or result from an acute injury. When you are assessing whether to see a medical professional, consider these signs you should seek medical care:

• Your range of motion is severely limited
• You cannot lift your arm overhead
• You have pain when at rest
• You have pain during movement
• Your leep is disrupted
• You have progressive weakness 
• You have progressive pain
• You are concerned there may be complications
• You are unsure of the severity of your injury

When in doubt, it is always better to seek an opinion from a shoulder specialist. This can catch any complications and ensure you have the knowledge needed to make informed health decisions. Early treatment often leads to better outcomes.

Ready to Begin?

We are ready when you are! The sooner you begin treatment, the sooner you will return to the activities you love. At Lancaster Orthopedic Group, shoulder specialist Dr. Michael Bercik will walk you through each step of your journey from diagnosis to recovery. For residents of Sinking Spring, PA, schedule your first appointment today by using the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or calling (866) 564-1000.