Magnetic resonance imaging, which is often used routinely in specialist centers to investigate many queries, is one of the best methods of diagnosing arthritis. These MRI scans allow an accurate assessment of cartilage defects, which is of fundamental importance in choosing the best therapeutic procedure.

Radiographs continue to play an important part, because they are quick and easy to prepare and often give the earliest indications of the extent of the arthritis. Appropriate radiographs often show, for instance, a narrowed joint space or changes on the edges of the joint surfaces (osteophytes), indicating arthritic change.