Imaging tests can help healthcare providers look inside the body to evaluate symptoms, injuries, or possible disease. Imaging may include X-rays, ultrasound, CT scans, MRI, mammograms, and other studies. Imaging is useful when it is medically appropriate, but not every symptom needs imaging right away. Common types of imaging X-ray X-rays are often used to evaluate bones, chest symptoms, certain injuries, or possible pneumonia. Ultrasound Ultrasound uses sound waves and does

Gout, joint pain Gout is a painful type of inflammatory arthritis that happens when uric acid builds up in the body and forms crystals in or around a joint. These crystals can cause sudden episodes of intense pain, swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness. Gout often affects one joint at a time, commonly the big toe, but it can also affect the ankle, foot, knee, wrist, elbow, or fingers. The CDC notes that gout causes periods of severe pain and swelling called flares, and th

A joint injury can happen suddenly from a fall, twist, sports injury, overuse, lifting, or an awkward movement. Commonly affected joints include the ankle, knee, wrist, shoulder, elbow, hip, fingers, and toes. Some joint injuries improve with rest and supportive care, but others may involve a fracture, dislocation, torn ligament, tendon injury, infection, or nerve problem that needs prompt medical attention. Common causes of joint injury Joint pain after an injury may be caus

Back pain is one of the most common reasons adults seek medical care. It can range from mild soreness to severe pain that limits movement. Many cases improve with time, gentle activity, and supportive care, but some symptoms need prompt medical evaluation. Back pain can come from muscles, ligaments, discs, joints, nerves, posture, injury, arthritis, kidney problems, infection, or other medical conditions. Common causes of back pain Back pain may be caused by: Muscle strain Po