Diagnosing arthritis starts with a review of your personal and family medical history and a physical exam of the affected joint. Dr. Ali assesses the joint, looking for the redness, swelling, and warmth that are common with arthritis. He may also request imaging tests, like X-rays, to evaluate the extent of your joint damage.
In some cases, you may also need blood testing to rule out infections in the joint that may be causing your symptoms.
Once he confirms your pain relates to arthritis, Dr. Ali creates a treatment plan that focuses on relieving your pain and increasing the function of your joint.