Do X Rays Show Arthritis?

X-rays are often a good tool for determining if arthritis exists and, specifically, what type. Common types of arthritis include rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis.

How does arthritis show up on an X-ray?

Specifically, an X-ray of a joint with osteoarthritis will show a narrowing of the space between the bones of the joint where the cartilage has worn away, as shown in the image below. Anteroposterior (front to back) X-ray image of the knee showing osteoarthritis.

Does XRAY always show arthritis?

While X-rays are used to reveal the appearance of osteoarthritic joints to diagnosticians, there is not always a direct correlation between what the X-rays show and the symptoms of osteoarthritis that a patient is experiencing. X-rays of osteoarthritis do not detect early cartilage abnormalities.