Creatinine Kinase Blood Test (CK)
£69
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Biomarkers Included with the Creatinine Kinase Blood Test (CK) blood test
Scroll down for more information about each biomarker
Creatinine Kinase (CK)
Why choose us for your Creatinine Kinase Blood Test (CK)
About the Creatinine Kinase Blood Test (CK) blood test
CK, or a Creatine Kinase blood test (also known as Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK) blood test), is an enzyme found mainly in your muscles, heart, and brain. It helps supply energy to cells. Normally, only small amounts of CK are present in the blood. When muscle tissue is damaged, higher levels of CK leak into the bloodstream.
Why is the CK Blood Test Performed?
Doctors and health professionals may request this test to:
- Check for muscle damage caused by injury, strenuous exercise, or medical conditions.
- Help diagnose or monitor muscle disorders, such as muscular dystrophy.
- Detect heart muscle damage (CK used to be a key test for heart attacks, though troponin is now more commonly used).
- Monitor side effects of certain medications that may affect muscles (e.g., statins).
- Investigate causes of symptoms such as muscle pain, weakness, stiffness, or dark urine.
What Do the Results Mean?
- Normal CK levels: Suggest no significant muscle injury or breakdown.
- Mildly raised CK: May occur after exercise, injections, or minor muscle strain.
- Moderately to highly raised CK: Can suggest more serious muscle damage, inflammation, or other conditions.
Your results should always be interpreted in the context of your symptoms and medical history by a qualified healthcare professional.
How is the Test Performed?
- A small blood sample is taken, usually from a vein in your arm.
- The procedure takes only a few minutes.
- You can go home immediately afterwards.
Summary
- CK testing is useful in checking for muscle health and injury.
- Raised levels don’t always mean serious illness — exercise or even injections can cause temporary increases.
- Results should always be reviewed alongside your symptoms, medical history, and other test results.
Biomarker information for Creatinine Kinase Blood Test (CK) blood test
Creatine kinase (CK) is an important enzyme in tissues that have a fast metabolism, including muscle tissue.
Our Reviews
What does the Creatinine Kinase Blood Test (CK) blood test involve?
This blood test is just like a standard blood test.
You will be asked to uncover you left or right arm and suitable vein is found. A tourniquet will be placed and tightened around your upper arm allowing the veins to swell and a needle will be placed into your vein. A small quantity of blood is then drawn into tubes. Once the procedure is complete a small plaster will be placed onto the site which can be removed after a few hours.
How do I prepare
- The blood test requires access to the area of interest, therefore, it is recommended to wear loose clothing to facilitate this process.
- Exercise: Avoid strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours before the test, as this can temporarily increase CK levels.
- Alcohol: Best to avoid before testing, as it can affect muscle health.
- If you are unsure about the preparation, please contact us for further information.
How to find us
We pride ourselves on providing the best quality service we can which is why we are trusted by GP's, doctors, physiotherapists, midwives and many other healthcare professionals.
Our mission of better quality healthcare for everyone is at the heart of everything we do and drives us to do the best we can for each and every patient that we see. Our team of experts have years of experience and are fully registered and regulated meaning you are in safe hands with us.
Creatinine Kinase Blood Test (CK) FAQ's
Important Notes
- We may require details of your GP / Health Care Professional before or at the time of the test.
- Our London East clinic is located on the first floor, up one flight of stairs. Please note that we don’t have a lift available at this location.
- Blood results require interpretation. All results should be interpreted by your regular health care professional / GP.
- All of our first-line tests are optional and provided on a self-referral basis. You must be aged 16 years or over to use this service. If you have an existing medical condition, are undergoing treatment, or have any concerns about whether this test is appropriate for you, we recommend that you consult your GP or healthcare professional before booking.
- We kindly ask that you inform us of any specific requirements, reasonable adjustments, cultural considerations, or practitioner preferences before your appointment. Whilst we will make every reasonable effort to accommodate requests, this may not always be possible at short notice or subject to staff availability.