Getting anX-rayof the knee is often a first step in diagnosing a knee condition.
In many cases, knee X-rays can help find the cause of pain, tenderness, or swelling.
X-rays are best at showing bone, but can also reveal soft tissue changes and signs of arthritis.

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The results can help determine a treatment for your knee or may lead to additional testing.
This article explores why knee X-rays are done and what the images can show.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)is a useful test as well.
Bilateral X-Rays
Sometimes your healthcare provider may want to have an X-ray done on both knees.
This is called abilateralX-ray and is especially common if your healthcare provider is checking for signs of arthritis.
Harvard Health Publishing.X-ray may be best screening tool for diagnosing knee pain.