Joint effusion a resultant large effusion due to inflammation. Gout is usually present with recurrent attacks of acute inflammatory arthritis (red, tender, hot, swollen joint). It is caused by elevated levels of uric acid in the blood that crystallizes and deposits in joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues. Gout affects 1% of individuals in Western populations at some point in their lives. Trauma from ligamentous, osseous or meniscal injuries can result in an effusion. These are often hemarthrosis or bloody effusions. Rest Joint effusion A joint effusion is the presence of increased intra-articular fluid. It may affect any joint. Commonly it involves the
Facet joint with large tracts of paraspinal muscles, further complicate the diagnostic approach. Typically facet joint arthritis is diagnosed with specialized physical examination by specialist physicians. Advanced imaging such as MRI or CT may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis and to rule out other conditions. Conservative treatment of facet joint arthritis involves chiropractic, physical therapy, or osteopathic medicine with correction of posture and biomechanics being the key. More advanced cases involving severe inflammatory response in the Z-joint, not unlike a swollen arthritic knee. Steroid injections may provide temporary pain relief. This is typically performed under image guidance to ensure accuracy given