Diagnostic Tests
Imaging tests are critical in diagnosing some cases of calf pain. For instance:
- X-rays: This is the most important diagnostic test if your problem is located in your bones and joints. X-rays are inexpensive and effective in diagnosing a stress fracture, an open or closed fracture, and it is sometimes enough to diagnose bone metastasis.
- MRI: The utility of an MRI is particularly relevant for soft tissue injuries, especially tendon and muscle-related problems. It can also detect blood clots in lower leg veins.
- Ultrasound: This is another inexpensive study and often enough to diagnose blood clot problems in case of deep vein thrombosis.
Doctors may also perform blood tests on some cases of calf pain, especially if you have swelling, color changes, and other symptoms of deep vein thrombosis. In such cases, they can perform D-dimer tests to diagnose blood clot problems and the erythrocyte sedimentation rate or C-reactive protein to evaluate your levels of inflammation.