Definition A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging method that uses x-rays to create cross-sectional pictures of the body. See also: Cranial CT scan Lumbosacral spine CT scan Orbit CT scan Thoracic CT scan Alternative Names CAT scan; Computed axial tomography scan; Computed tomography scan How the Test is

Definition Joint pain can affect one or more joints. See also: Arthritis (inflammation of joints) Bursitis Muscle pain Alternative Names Stiffness in a joint; Pain – joints; Arthralgia Considerations Joint pain can be caused by many types of injuries or conditions. No matter what causes it, joint pain can be

Definition An abnormal lack of sweat in response to heat may be harmful, because sweating allows heat to be released from the body. The medical term for absent sweating is anhidrosis. Alternative Names Decreased sweating; Anhidrosis Considerations Anhidrosis sometimes goes unrecognized until a substantial amount of heat or exertion fails

Alternative Names Pain – knee Causes Knee pain usually results from overuse, poor form during physical activity, not warming up or cooling down, or inadequate stretching. Simple causes of knee pain often clear up on their own with self care. Being overweight can put you at greater risk for knee

Definition Pain or discomfort can be felt anywhere in the foot, including the heel, toes, arch, instep, sole, or ankles. See also: Ankle pain Heel pain Alternative Names Pain – foot Causes Foot pain can be caused by: Bunions — a protrusion at the base of the big toe, which

Definition Leg pain is a common symptom and complaint. For more specific information, see: Foot pain Knee pain Joint pain Hip pain Muscle pain Shin splints Alternative Names Pain – leg; Aches – leg; Cramps – leg Causes Leg pain can be due to a muscle cramp (also called a

Definition Bone pain or tenderness is aching or other discomfort in one or more bones. Alternative Names Aches and pains in bones; Pain – bones Considerations Bone pain is seen less commonly than joint pain and muscle pain . The source of bone pain may be obvious, as in a

Definition Hip pain involves any pain in or around the hip joint. Alternative Names Pain – hip Considerations Hip-related pain is not always felt directly over the hip. Instead, you may feel it in the middle of your thigh or in your groin. Similarly, pain you feel in the hip

Definition Wrist pain is any pain or discomfort in the wrist. Alternative Names Pain – wrist Causes Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common cause of wrist pain. You may feel aching, burning, numbness, or tingling in your palm, wrist, thumb, or fingers. The thumb muscle can become weak, making it

Definition This article describes aching or other discomfort in the elbow that is not related to direct injury. Alternative Names Pain – elbow Causes Elbow pain can be caused by a variety of problems. A common cause in adults is tendinitis , an inflammation and injury to the tendons —