Rotator Cuff Tears

Rotator cuff injuries bring almost 2 million people to the doctor’s office each year. Shoulder specialist Michael J. Bercik, Jr., MD, offers cutting-edge treatments for rotator cuff tears at his offices in Lancaster, Ephrata, or Mount Joy, Pennsylvania. If you think you may have a torn rotator cuff, call the nearest office or request an appointment online today. 

What are rotator cuff tears?

A rotator cuff is a group of four tendons that attach your upper arm bone (humerus) to your shoulder blade. A rotator cuff tear happens when one or more of these tendons become damaged.

Rotator cuff tears can happen suddenly as a result of acute trauma, such as a fall or football tackle. More often, these injuries are caused by degeneration that occurs slowly over time. The rotator cuff wears down from age and repetitive stress from shoulder motions.

There are two main types of rotator cuff tears: partial and complete. A partial tear involves damage to the tendon without completely tearing it. A complete tear essentially creates a hole in the tendon that separates it from the bone.

When do I need surgery for a rotator cuff tear?

Dr. Bercik always explores every nonsurgical treatment possible before recommending surgery. When it comes to rotator cuff tears, about 80% of patients experience relief from nonsurgical treatments.

However, if your shoulder pain persists despite conservative treatment, Dr. Bercik may recommend surgery to repair your rotator cuff.

What does rotator cuff repair involve?

Dr. Bercik is fellowship-trained in sports medicine and stays current on the leading techniques in rotator cuff repair. After a thorough physical exam and review of your medical history, Dr. Bercik recommends the best type of rotator cuff surgery to correct your particular tear.

He’s highly skilled in various approaches, including arthroscopic and open surgeries. He also offers a mini-open approach, which is similar to full open surgery in regard to the strength of the repair while remaining minimally invasive.

What should I expect after rotator cuff repair surgery?

The goal of rotator cuff repair is to restore function to your shoulder and relieve pain. However, this improvement doesn’t happen right away.

After surgery, Dr. Bercik will work with you to develop a shoulder rehabilitation plan to facilitate recovery. Over the course of 3-4 months, you gradually increase your shoulder strength and range of motion.

To learn more about treating a rotator cuff tear, call the offices of Michael J. Bercik Jr., MD, or request an appointment online today.