Impingementuhkia

Impingementuhkia refers to a type of shoulder pain caused by the impingement of soft tissues, primarily the rotator cuff tendons and the subacromial bursa, between the bones of the shoulder joint. This condition commonly occurs during overhead activities or when lifting the arm away from the body. The space where these structures pass, known as the subacromial space, can become narrowed, leading to friction and inflammation.

Several factors can contribute to impingementuhkia. These include repetitive overhead motions, poor posture, bone spurs on the acromion (part of the shoulder blade), and weakness or imbalance in the rotator cuff muscles. The inflammation of the bursa, called bursitis, and the tendons, called tendinitis, are direct consequences of the repeated pinching.

Symptoms typically include pain in the outer shoulder that may radiate down the arm, particularly when lifting or reaching. Night pain is also common, making it difficult to sleep on the affected side. Weakness in the shoulder can also develop.

Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, where a doctor assesses range of motion and performs specific tests to reproduce the impingement pain. Imaging studies like X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI may be used to identify bone spurs, rotator cuff tears, or other underlying issues.

Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and pain and improve shoulder function. This often begins with conservative measures such as rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy. Physical therapy exercises focus on strengthening the rotator cuff and scapular stabilizing muscles, improving posture, and restoring normal shoulder mechanics. In persistent cases, corticosteroid injections may be considered to reduce inflammation. If conservative treatments are unsuccessful and significant structural damage is present, surgery, such as a subacromial decompression, might be recommended to create more space in the subacromial area.