Õlapiirkonna

The õlapiirkonna, commonly referred to as the shoulder region, is a complex anatomical area of the human body. It comprises the shoulder joint itself, which is a ball-and-socket joint, along with surrounding muscles, ligaments, tendons, and bones. The primary bones involved are the clavicle (collarbone), scapula (shoulder blade), and humerus (upper arm bone). The shoulder joint allows for an extensive range of motion, making it the most mobile joint in the body. This mobility is facilitated by the rotator cuff, a group of four muscles and their tendons that stabilize and rotate the arm.

Pain in the õlapiirkonna can arise from a variety of causes. These include overuse injuries, such as tendonitis or bursitis, which involve inflammation of the tendons or the fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint. Traumatic injuries like dislocations, fractures, or rotator cuff tears can also cause significant pain and dysfunction. Degenerative conditions, such as osteoarthritis, can lead to the breakdown of cartilage within the joint, resulting in pain and stiffness. Other potential causes include impingement syndrome, where soft tissues become compressed during arm movement, and referred pain from other areas like the neck.

Diagnosis of shoulder region problems typically involves a physical examination, assessment of range of motion, and specific tests to evaluate different structures. Imaging studies like X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound may be used to visualize the bones, muscles, and tendons and confirm the diagnosis. Treatment approaches vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. They can range from conservative measures like rest, ice, physical therapy, and pain medication to more invasive interventions such as corticosteroid injections or surgery. Physical therapy plays a crucial role in rehabilitation, aiming to restore strength, flexibility, and function to the shoulder.