X-ray
Evaluates: Fractures
MRI
Evaluates: Ligaments
CT Scan
Evaluates: Complex fractures and detailed bone anatomy. Key Notes: Higher radiation exposure than X-ray; faster than MRI.
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Evaluates: Effusions
Bone Scan
Evaluates: Occult fractures
DEXA Scan
Evaluates: Bone mineral density. Key Notes: Diagnostic standard for osteoporosis.
EMG / Nerve Conduction Study
Evaluates: Neuropathies
ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate)
Evaluates: Inflammation. Key Notes: Nonspecific; elevated in autoimmune and infectious conditions.
CRP (C-Reactive Protein)
Evaluates: Acute inflammation. Key Notes: More sensitive than ESR for active inflammation.
Rheumatoid Factor (RF)
Evaluates: Rheumatoid arthritis screening. Key Notes: Not diagnostic alone; may be positive in other conditions.
Anti-CCP Antibody
Evaluates: Rheumatoid arthritis confirmation. Key Notes: High specificity for RA.
ANA (Antinuclear Antibody)
Evaluates: Autoimmune connective tissue diseases. Key Notes: Screening test only; requires clinical correlation.
Creatine Kinase (CK)
Evaluates: Muscle injury or myopathy. Key Notes: Elevated in rhabdomyolysis and inflammatory myopathies.
Uric Acid
Evaluates: Gout. Key Notes: May be normal during an acute gout flare.
Joint Aspiration / Synovial Fluid Analysis
Evaluates: Infection
