How is bursitis diagnosed?

How is bursitis diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask you questions about the pain and do a physical exam. The results may be enough for a diagnosis. If you have another bursitis flare-up or signs of infection, your provider may recommend:

• X-rays to rule out other conditions.
• Ultrasound or MRI (magnetic imaging resonance) imaging tests to detect swollen bursae.
• A blood test to look for infection.
• A sample of fluid from the bursa, if infected.