Creatine kinase (CK)

What this test is

Creatine kinase, or CK, is made by your muscles. It goes up when a muscle is hurt or under strain. Your doctor may check it if you have new muscle pain or weakness. This is especially true if you take a statin, a common cholesterol medicine. It is also checked as one of a few tests used to help sort out widespread pain and tiredness, to see if fibromyalgia fits. A high CK does not always mean something serious. Hard exercise, a fall, or a needle can raise it for a few days. If you have no muscle symptoms, do not take a statin, and are not being checked for fibromyalgia, this test is not usually needed as part of routine bloodwork.