Given the several difficulties associated with histology, including difficulty in continuous monitoring, this study aimed to investigate the feasibility of optical imaging modalities—cross-polarization color (
CPC) imaging,
erythema index (EI) imaging, and
laser speckle contrast (LSC) imaging—for continuous evaluation and monitoring of
arthritis in animal models. C57BL/6 mice, used for the evaluation of
arthritis, were divided into three groups: arthritic mice group (AMG), positive control mice group (
PCMG), and negative control mice group (NCMG). Complete Freund’s adjuvant,
mineral oil, and saline were injected into the footpad for AMG,
PCMG, and NCMG, respectively. LSC and
CPC images were acquired from 0 through 144 h after injection for all groups. EI images were calculated from
CPC images. Variations in feet area, EI, and speckle index for each mice group over time were calculated for quantitative evaluation of
arthritis. Histological examinations were performed, and the results were found to be consistent with those from optical imaging analysis. Thus, optical imaging modalities may be successfully applied for continuous evaluation and monitoring of
arthritis in animal models.