Diagnosis and Treatment for Osteoarthritis

Diagnosing Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is usually diagnosed after your doctor has taken a careful history of your symptoms. A physical exam will be done. There are no definitive lab blood tests to make an absolute diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Certain tests, specifically X-rays of the joint, may confirm your doctor’s impression that you have developed osteoarthritis.

Test may include:

• X-ray examination of an affected joint 
• Arthrocentesis 
• Blood tests (to check for other disorders)

Request an appointment with an Arthritis Specialist

Treatments for Osteoarthritis

The goals of treatment include:

• Controlling pain
• Improving mobility and joint use
• Minimizing disability, returning normal function
• Slowing the progression of osteoarthritis
• Protecting other joints from developing osteoarthritis

Treatment involves the following:

• Lifestyle changes
• Medications
• Surgery
• Alternative and complementary therapies
• Other treatments

Request an appointment with an Arthritis Specialist