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Contents
  • Imaging Tests: Looking Inside
  • Joint Aspirations: Fluid Analysis
  • Electrodiagnostic Studies: Nerve Check

Diagnostic Tests for Hand Pain: What to Expect

Diagnostic Tests for Hand Pain: What to Expect

The Big Picture

Diagnosing hand pain involves several tests to pinpoint the problem. Learn about the common diagnostic procedures used by doctors.
Contents
  • Imaging Tests: Looking Inside
  • Joint Aspirations: Fluid Analysis
  • Electrodiagnostic Studies: Nerve Check

Imaging Tests: Looking Inside

X-rays are often the first step in diagnosing hand pain, revealing fractures and joint issues. For more detailed views, CT scans or MRIs might be used to investigate soft tissues and complex structures. While advanced imaging is not always necessary, it can confirm diagnoses when needed.

Joint Aspirations: Fluid Analysis

Aspiration involves extracting joint fluid for analysis, often to check for infections or crystals linked to gout. This test can be both diagnostic and therapeutic, helping to relieve pain by removing excess fluid. Though technically challenging in small joints, it provides valuable insights.
This article provides an overview of diagnostic tests for hand pain, including imaging tests such as X-rays and MRIs, and joint aspirations for fluid analysis.

Electrodiagnostic Studies: Nerve Check

Nerve conduction studies and electromyography test the electrical activity in nerves and muscles. These tests are crucial for diagnosing conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome when symptoms persist despite initial treatments. They help identify any nerve damage and its severity.

FAQs

What does an X-ray show for hand pain?

X-rays reveal bone fractures and joint abnormalities in the hand.

Why is joint aspiration performed?

Joint aspiration analyzes fluid for infections or crystals and can relieve pain.

What are electrodiagnostic studies used for?

They assess nerve and muscle function to diagnose conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Wrapping Up

Understanding these tests can prepare you for the diagnostic process and potential treatment paths.
Discuss with Doctronic which diagnostic tests might be suitable for your hand pain.
Additional References
  1. Swigart CR. Hand and wrist pain. In: Kelley's textbook of rheumatology, 9th, Firestein GS, Budd RC, Gabriel SE, McInnes IB, O'Dell R (Eds), Elsevier Saunders, Philadelphia 2013. Vol I, p.718.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.