If you experience joint pain and stiffness, take careful note of your signs and symptoms, and speak to your doctor.
Your doctor will take a thorough history and do a physical examination to make the diagnosis. No matter which form of arthritis a person has, some of the same types of arthritis tests may be done. Your doctor may take blood tests or X-rays to determine whether, and to what extent, you have suffered damage to your joints.
Some forms of arthritis can cause damage to your joints, so the earlier you contact a doctor, the better.
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