Liigesepindu

Liigesepindu is a term in Estonian medical literature describing pinching or compression within a joint during movement, causing pain and reduced range of motion. The name combines liiges (joint) and pindu (pinch). In English, it is often called joint impingement.

Causes include degenerative changes such as osteoarthritis, bone spurs, anatomical narrowing of the joint, repetitive overuse, and prior injury. These factors can bring bone, cartilage, or soft-tissue structures into abnormal contact during movement.

Common sites are the shoulder, hip, knee, and elbow. Symptoms include pain with motion, catching or grinding, limited movement, and sometimes swelling or tenderness.

Diagnosis relies on clinical examination and imaging. X-rays detect bone changes; MRI or ultrasound shows soft tissues involved in impingement. Treatment starts with rest, activity modification, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and targeted physical therapy; corticosteroid injections may help. Surgery is considered when nonoperative care fails and aims to relieve the impinging structures and restore normal joint mechanics.

Prognosis varies by underlying cause and response to treatment. Prevention focuses on proper conditioning, gradual increase of activity, and addressing muscle imbalances and movement patterns that contribute to abnormal joint contact.