Shoulder and elbow physical therapy is designed to improve movement, alleviate pain, and prevent future discomfort. If you are experiencing an upper body injury or are prone to upper body discomfort, working with Dr. Michael Bercik and our experienced team at Lancaster Orthopedic Group can help you identify the cause of your symptoms and work to improve your daily life. Residents of Wyomissing, PA, should look no further for the best shoulder specialist care available. 

Dr. Michael Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with specialty training in shoulder and elbow traumatology. After graduating magna cum laude from Georgetown University, Dr. Bercik completed his medical degree at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. He found a passion for helping patients improve the function of their shoulders and elbows, and went on to complete his residency training in orthopedic surgery at the Rothman Institute in Philadelphia, PA. During his residency program, Dr. Bercik stood out for his attention to patient care and dedication to mastering the advanced materials. He was recognized for his expertise through the annual Orthopedic In training Examination award for scoring the highest in his residency program, alongside the Mark D Chilton award for outstanding patient care. 

Following his residency, Dr. Bercik further explored techniques to treat shoulder and elbow traumatic injuries through a fellowship in Trauma and Reconstructive surgery at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. He was able to expand on these techniques with two international fellowships, studying under some of the most influential surgeons in the field. Dr. Bercik is proud to be able to offer his patients creative solutions to complex ailments and is continually learning the latest techniques to foster the best outcomes.

Exercises to correct rounded posture

Rounded posture occurs when we exercise poor posture in our daily routine. This can be when driving, standing, sitting, looking at technology, eating, or any activity where we round our shoulders forward. To counter this movement, several at-home stretches can help the shoulders stop rounding forward and open the chest. Two of our top recommendations include:

Neck flexion stretch

This stretch targets the trapezius and scalene muscles.

1. Keep the upper body upright and pull the shoulders down and back
2. Reach your right hand over your head to your left ear and gently pull the neck into a lateral stretch. Your right ear should pull toward your right shoulder. Be mindful of keeping the shoulders down and in neutral position
3. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat as able
4. Perform the same movement on the other side

Doorway chest opening stretch

This stretch is designed to open the chest.

1. Stand in front of a doorway 
2. Bend your elbows into a touchdown position (Upper arms parallel to the shoulders, elbows bent at 90 degrees with hands towards the ceiling)
3. Step forward so your forearms touch either side of the doorway
4. Step forward again to feel a stretch across the chest and inner shoulders
5. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat as able

Get Started at Lancaster Orthopedic Group

Ready to schedule your first appointment? Shoulder specialists can help you identify the root cause of your discomfort and discuss sustainable solutions to prevent future pain. If you live or work in Wyomissing, PA, you can contact our Lancaster Orthopedic Group office by using the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or call (866) 564-1000.