BURSITIS DIAGNOSIS |
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When a patient has pain in a joint, a
careful physical examination is needed to determine what type of
movement is affected and if there is any swelling present. Bursitis
will not show up on x-rays, although sometimes there are also
calcium deposits in the joint that can be seen. Inserting a thin
needle into the affected bursa and removing (aspirating) some of the
synovial fluid for examination can confirm the diagnosis. In most
cases, the fluid will not be clear. It can be tested for the
presence of microorganisms, which would indicate an infection, and
crystals, which could indicate gout. In instances where the
diagnosis is difficult, a local anesthetic (a drug that numbs the
area) is injected into the painful spot. If the discomfort stops
temporarily, then bursitis is probably the correct diagnosis. |
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| BURSITIS RELATED ITEMS |
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