Q: What kind of tests can diagnose arthritis?
The Mayo Clinic reports that various tests and exams are usually used in tandem to effectively diagnose arthritis. Physical exams can check joins for tenderness and redness along with warmth, stiffness or any build up of fluid.
And then there are X-rays, of course, along with blood and urine tests. Doctors will also remove fluid from a swollen joint to examine that.
WebMd reports that certain tests can detect antibodies called rheumatoid factors, which helps diagnose rheumatoid arthritis. X-rays can help with osteoarthritis since those pictures can detect a lose of bone or bone spurs.
Rest, therapy, exercise, drugs and surgery are all used to treat arthritis. Both websites also suggest painkillers or anti-inflammatory drugs and occupational therapy, in which a therapist can show you how to do normal activities in easier ways.
— WebMd.com, MayoClinic.com