Several tests can reveal muscle damage, depending on the suspected cause and severity. A blood test measuring creatine kinase (CK) levels is commonly used. Elevated CK indicates muscle damage because this enzyme is released into the bloodstream when muscle tissue is injured. [^1, ^2, ^3, ^4, ^5, ^6, ^7, ^8]
Beyond blood tests, imaging techniques provide visual confirmation of muscle damage:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI offers detailed images of muscles, ligaments, and tendons, making it particularly valuable for identifying soft tissue problems. [^3, ^4, ^9]
- Computed Tomography (CT): CT scans use X-rays to create detailed images, revealing the extent and location of muscle damage. [^4, ^10]
- Ultrasound: This non-invasive technique can also visualize muscle damage and assess the condition of soft tissues. [^3]
- Electromyography (EMG): EMG measures the electrical activity in muscles to assess nerve and muscle function, identifying issues like muscle inflammation or nerve damage that might cause muscle injury. [^9]
Other diagnostic tools, such as DEXA scans and arthrograms, may be employed depending on the specific circumstances. [^3] A physical examination by a healthcare professional remains a crucial part of diagnosing muscle damage. [^11]
[^1]: Creatine Kinase: MedlinePlus Medical Test. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/creatine-kinase/
[^2]: Creatine Kinase (CK): What It Is, Purpose & Procedure. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/22692-creatine-kinase-ck
[^3]: Imaging Tests for Musculoskeletal Disorders and Muscle Damage. https://www.envrad.com/imaging-tests-musculoskeletal-disorders-muscle-damage/
[^4]: Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). (Source provided in prompt)
[^5]: Polymyositis - Diagnosis and treatment - Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/polymyositis/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20353212
[^6]: Myositis: Muscle Inflammation | Inflammatory Myopathy | HSS. https://www.hss.edu/condition-list_myositis.asp
[^7]: Diagnosing Inflammatory Myopathies | NYU Langone Health. https://nyulangone.org/conditions/inflammatory-myopathies/diagnosis
[^8]: Muscular dystrophy - Diagnosis - NHS. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/muscular-dystrophy/diagnosis/
[^9]: Tests for Musculoskeletal Disorders - Tests for Musculoskeletal ... https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/bone-joint-and-muscle-disorders/diagnosis-of-musculoskeletal-disorders/tests-for-musculoskeletal-disorders
[^10]: Muscle Strain: What You Need to Know About Pulled Muscles. https://www.hss.edu/conditions_muscle-strain.asp
[^11]: Muscle Strains: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & FAQs. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22336-muscle-strains
