Osteoarthritis Diagnosis Criteria

Diagnostic criteria identify and diagnose a disease in individual patients, while classification criteria categorize conditions for research and study purposes.

Arthritis is a broad term for conditions causing joint pain and inflammation. Osteoarthritis is a specific type of arthritis characterized by the wear and tear of joint cartilage.

Osteoarthritis diagnosis involves a physical exam, patient history review, and imaging tests like X-rays to detect joint changes. Blood tests may exclude other conditions. These steps confirm the diagnosis, guiding the treatment plan to manage symptoms and improve life quality.