If you have recently suffered rotator cuff tears or injuries and need a specialist in Reading, PA, look no further than Dr. Michael J Bercik and our expert team at Lancaster Orthopedics. We specialize in ailments of the shoulder and can help you on the best road to a speedy recovery.

Dr. Michael Bercik is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon that specializes in shoulder and elbow conditions, as well as orthopedic traumatology. He trained under Dr. Gilles Walch, who is widely considered to be one of the most influential shoulder surgeons in the world. Following this, he completed a second fellowship in Melbourne, Australia, where he trained under Professor Simon Bell at the Melbourne Shoulder and Elbow Centre and Monash University.

These experiences have allowed Dr. Michael Bercik to gain a broad understanding of how to effectively treat injuries of the rotator cuff. We comprehensively evaluate the condition of each of our patients and develop a tailored orthopedic treatment plan. Throughout the process, we want you to feel confident in your care plan and able to ask questions at every stage of the process.

How are Rotator Cuff Injuries Treated?

One of the most important things to do is to stop using your shoulder once you start experiencing pain. This can cause further damage to the shoulder and a potential tear to get larger. If you are experiencing chronic shoulder or arm pain, make sure to see a specialized orthopedic doctor to assess and diagnose your injury.

Treatments for rotator cuff injuries are aimed at decreasing pain and improving movement in minimal time. Depending on your unique anatomy and body history, as well as the details of the contributing factors for your shoulder injury, the best treatment option for you will vary.

There is no current evidence that surgical results are better immediately after the injury versus later, which is why nonsurgical treatments are generally recommended first. Around 80% of patients can relieve pain and improve shoulder function through nonsurgical treatments. Orthopedic clinicians often recommend the following as a first line of treatment:

• Resting
• Avoiding activities that increase shoulder pain
• Strengthening exercises and physical therapy: your doctor will prescribe sessions with a physical therapist to perform exercises that will increase strength, stability, and flexibility of the shoulder joint.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS): These drugs, such as ibuprofen, help to relieve swelling and pain.
• Steroid injections: If the other nonsurgical treatments are not working, steroid injections can help to relieve pain and inflammation.

If nonsurgical treatments are not working and you and your provider decide that surgery is the best option, this can be a very effective treatment to reduce pain and increase mobility. Signs that surgery is the best next step may include:

• Chronic pain lasting over 6 months
• Tears over 3 cm in surrounding tissue
• Significant weakness and loss of movement ability
• Severe recent injury

Surgery for a torn rotator cuff generally involves re-attaching the tendon to the head of the humerus, which is the upper arm bone. Your orthopedic surgeon will discuss different options and treatment plans with you based on your individual needs.

Contact Us Today!

Are you in need of treatment for rotator cuff tears or injuries? If you live or work in Reading, PA, you can feel confident in choosing Dr. Michael J Bercik and our expert team at Lancaster Orthopedics. 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.