Osteoarthritis

Investigations

In addition to the physical exam, your doctor may also recommend the following tests.

Xray of the Left Knee showing Osteoarthrtis

X-rays. An X-ray of a joint with Osteoarthritis may show a number of features including:
- Joint Space Narrowing. As the healthy normal cartilage that lines your joint wears down, the Joint Space narrows.
- Osteophytes. These bone spurs form around the joint.
- Sclerosis. This a a reaction of the bone that is evident on a Xray.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A MRI is a special investigation using magnetic fields to give detailed images of soft tissue. It can also be helpful to look at cartilage damage and areas of inflammation and damage.

Blood tests. Blood tests may help rule out other causes of joint pain, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Joint Aspirate. Sometimes it is necessary to take a sample from your joint to examine it's cells under a microscope. This can be particularly helpful infection or gout needs to be ruled out as a cause of your knee pain.

9 April, 2010