Bursitis (cont.)
IN THIS ARTICLE
Exams and Tests
- History: The doctor will usually take a detailed
history about the onset of symptoms and will want to know what movement or activity makes you feel more or less pain. You will need to report other medical problems you may have.
- Fluid removal: The doctor may remove synovial fluid
from the joint with a needle (aspiration) and send it to the lab for analysis
for possible infection. Bursitis in the knee and elbow are especially prone to infection.
- X-rays: They are usually not helpful, but the doctor may get them if any other disease process is suspected such as a fracture or dislocation. MRI and CT scans are obtained only to exclude other causes.
- Blood testing: The doctor may take blood from your arm for lab testing to rule out infection or other conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or hyperthyroidism.
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Bursitis »
Bursae are saclike structures between skin and bone or between tendons, ligaments, and bone.
