Doctors use several different tests to correctly identify the type of arthritis and prescribe an accurate treatment program. Doctors include a comprehensive physical examination and history of the patient and the patient & # 39; s family as well as certain blood tests.
Most people over the age of 65 have changes in their joints without having the accompaniment The fact, the cartilage and joint damage seen in an x-ray are many more severe than the patient & # 39; s rating of pain and disability. The doctor will use x-rays with other findings and tests to identify the arthritic condition or modify a treatment program.
The test results are done in the radiological department, often by the radiology department, often by the radiology. The test results are sent to the doctor and not given to to the patient at the time of the procedure.
Computerized tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) are tests that joint use degeneration or the involvement of soft tissue or other organs. The CT scan takes pictures in slices of the body and are then fed back to a computer for interpretation. These x-ray pictures show bone but also show muscle and organ systems as well.
The radio waves react with the water in the body and send back this images is a 60% content so the MRI can be fairly accurate over the whole body. the best for viewing soft tissue and organ system changes.
Sometimes doctors also use arthrocentisis to evaluate the fluids. In an inflammatory response this fluid can increase in amount and get thicker causing swelling of the joint.
A special camera is used in the radiology department of the hospital. A special camera is used to see the bones and most accurately evaluate the inflammation in the joints.
In gout the fluid also has urate crystals - this is a comprehensive test for gout. ___ ___ 0 ___ ___ 0 ___ ___ 0 the test will also decrease pain and improve mobility for a short period of time.
A small tube and camera are inserted into the joint so the doctor can view the damage and sometimes also repair or remove This surgery is done in the hospital, usually under a local anesthetic to reduce the surgical risk to the patient.
Do arthritic condition also cause soft tissue and organ damage. Doctors will order Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs) to assess any damage that may have been done. .
An electro-cardiogram (ECG / EKG) is used to assess any muscle damage, help to identify problems and change treatment programs
With out a comprehensive tests for arthritis, using in diagnosis. Without a correct diagnosis any treatment plan not include to stop the progress of the disease or less pain, swelling and disability . To Identify arthritis the doctor needs a comprehensive physical exam, family history, testing and the cooperation of the patient.
