Impingementoireyhtymän

Impingementoireyhtymän is a Finnish term that translates to "impingement syndrome" in English. It is a medical condition characterized by the pinching or compression of soft tissues, most commonly tendons or nerves, as they pass through a confined space in the body. This compression leads to pain, inflammation, and reduced range of motion.

The most frequent site for impingement syndrome is the shoulder, specifically the subacromial space. Here, the rotator cuff tendons can become impinged between the head of the humerus and the acromion, a bony projection of the shoulder blade. This can be caused by repetitive overhead activities, poor posture, or structural abnormalities. Symptoms often include pain in the front or side of the shoulder, which may worsen with lifting the arm or lying on the affected side.

Impingement syndrome can also occur in other areas, such as the hip or the elbow. In the hip, it is often referred to as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and involves abnormal bone growth on the femoral head or acetabulum, leading to friction and pain during movement. Elbow impingement can affect tendons or nerves, often due to overuse or trauma.

Diagnosis typically involves a physical examination, assessment of range of motion, and imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI to visualize the affected structures and identify the source of compression. Treatment strategies vary depending on the severity and location of the impingement but often include rest, physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles and improve posture, anti-inflammatory medications, and in some cases, corticosteroid injections. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful, surgical intervention may be considered to decompress the affected area and relieve the impingement.