Glossary
Arthritis: A disease marked by inflammation and pain in the jointsPain: An unpleasant sensation that can range from mild localized discomfort to agony. Pain has both physical and emotional components.
Swelling: Abnormal inflammation that occurs in the body.
Osteoporosis: A disease in which bones become thin, weak and are easily fractured.
X-rays: High-energy radiation with waves shorter than those of visible light. X-rays possess the properties of penetrating most substances (to varying extents), of acting on a photographic film or plate (permitting radiography), and of causing a fluorescent screen to give off light (permitting fluoroscopy). In low doses, X-rays are used for making images that help to diagnose disease, and in high doses to treat cancer. Formerly called a Roentgen ray.
CT: This is a X- ray procedure enhanced by computer the results are three dimensioned scan through a body part showing bone and body tissue.
MRI: A painless method using magnetic fields for taking pictures of internal organs.
Ultrasound: A diagnostic imaging technique, which uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasounds are used to view internal organs as they function, and to assess blood flow through various vessels.
Anemia: A condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal.
