Shoulder pain can make even the simplest daily tasks a challenge. If you feel you may need a shoulder surgeon, Dr. Michael J Bercik and our team can provide you with comprehensive treatment and recommend the next steps so you can feel confident in your recovery plan. Lancaster residents should visit our Lancaster location to get started.

Dr. Michael Bercik is a renowned board-certified orthopedic surgeon with a specialty in shoulder and elbow surgery and orthopedic traumatology. Having completed two international fellowships and training under the guidance of some of the most influential shoulder surgeons in the world, Dr. Bercik brings advanced surgical techniques designed to give optimal results.

Dr. Bercik has received multiple awards for his outstanding patient care and has been published in various peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Bercik and our team utilize state-of-the-art equipment and the latest evidence-based methods so our patients can feel confident in their care. 

How are Shoulder Injuries Diagnosed?

The most common way to diagnose shoulder injuries is through imaging tests. Certain movements and manual manipulation can indicate whether a specific shoulder injury is likely. Still, imaging tests give a clear picture of precisely what is happening to ensure you are not misdiagnosed.

The first imaging test that you will likely be given is an X-ray. X-rays are used to show the bone structure and can quickly identify bone-related problems such as breaks, fractures, arthritis, and bone density-related issues. An ultrasound can also be used to show the muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and soft tissues in the shoulder to diagnose injury to this area.

An MRI or CT scan may be next if the X-ray or ultrasound does not show the injury, depending on the suspected diagnosis. An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) depicts the soft tissues in the body and can identify issues with the labrum, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. A CT scan (computed tomography) shows a more detailed picture of the bones in the shoulder and can see problems that an X-ray may have missed.

What does Shoulder Rehabilitation Look Like?

Once your injury is diagnosed and treated, you will be advised to undergo a physical therapy regimen to reduce scar tissue and any loss of functionality. Shoulder rehabilitation programs usually focus on strength and flexibility to gradually increase range-of-motion post-surgery and alleviate any stiffness.

As you heal, strength exercises and more complicated movements will be incorporated into your physical therapy regimen. This usually happens within 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.

For athletes, returning to their sport can be the primary concern. We will advise you on the best way to ease back into the repetitive movements of the sport while minimizing the risk of reinjury. Typically, this takes around two to four months but can take up to one year or more in severe cases.

We will work with you to incorporate functional training into your routine to prevent skill loss and prep the body for the movements specific to your daily needs.

Ready to get started?

If you are looking for a shoulder surgeon in Lancaster, PA, look no further than Dr. Michael Bercik and our expert team. We specialize in conditions of the shoulder and provide state-of-art methods to minimize downtown and ease recovery. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Bercik, please click the “Schedule An Appointment” link in the top right of the website or call (866) 564-1000.