Arthritis: How is it diagnosed?

No single test can diagnose arthritis. Arthritis is a general term that describes more than 100 diseases affecting the joints and connective tissues. A diagnosis of arthritis is usually established based on:

• Physical examination to check for tenderness, redness, warmth, stiffness or fluid in a joint
• Personal and family medical history

Your doctor may recommend additional diagnostic testing, such as:

• Blood tests
• Urine tests
• X-rays
• Removal of fluid from a swollen joint for examination

If you have pain, stiffness, swelling, or difficulty moving a joint or doing daily activities, see your doctor. These may be signs and symptoms of arthritis.