If you have pain, stiffness or swelling in or around a joint for more than two weeks, you should see your GP.  He/she is likely to:

• Carry out a physical examination and take a medical history.
• Arrange x-rays of the joint in question.  These will help the doctor determine the extent and severity of any problem so that he/she can develop a specific treatment protocol.  An x-ray will show the amount of cartilage loss and bone damage plus any bony spurs that have developed.  In the long term, a clear sequence of x-rays over time will show the progression of the disease.
• Perform a joint aspiration if your doctor suspects an infection.  He/she will use a needle to remove a small sample of synovial fluid from the affected joint.

The earlier the diagnosis, the quicker you will be able to begin treatments that will help to alleviate the pain plus improve and sustain mobility in the affected joint.

23/04/2009