Shoulder

A shoulder X-ray provides clear images of the bones in your shoulder, helping detect fractures, dislocations, or signs of arthritis.

What Is a Shoulder X-Ray?

A shoulder X-ray is a quick, painless imaging test that uses low-dose radiation to capture pictures of your shoulder joint, including the humerus (upper arm bone), scapula (shoulder blade), and clavicle (collarbone). It helps doctors visualize bones and identify issues such as fractures, dislocations, arthritis, or bone abnormalities.

A normal shoulder X-ray shows the bone structures in proper alignment with clear joint spaces and no signs of trauma or degeneration. It’s often the first diagnostic tool used before advanced imaging like MRI or CT.

When Do You Need a Shoulder X-Ray?

You may be recommended a shoulder X-ray if you're experiencing:

• Shoulder pain or stiffness
  
• Limited range of motion
  
• Suspected dislocation or fracture
  
• Injury from falls, sports, or accidents
  
• Swelling or deformity in the shoulder area
  
• Persistent pain not responding to treatment
  

Conditions like rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulder, or arthritis may not always be visible on an X-ray, but the scan can help rule out bone damage, shoulder dislocation, or a clavicle fracture.

If you have any concerning symptoms, ensure to discuss and see your own doctor.

What Conditions Can a Shoulder X-Ray Detect?

A shoulder X-ray can detect several bone-related conditions, including:

• Fractures of the humerus, clavicle (collar bone), or scapula
  
• Shoulder dislocations, including anterior and posterior shoulder dislocations
  
• Bone tumors or cysts
  
• Osteoarthritis and joint space narrowing
  
• Signs of infection or inflammation
  
• Calcific tendonitis
  
• Bone alignment issues post-surgery or injury
  

Dislocated shoulders often appear prominently on imaging. A dislocated shoulder X-ray may show a shifted ball of the upper arm bone from its socket, depending on whether it's an anterior or posterior dislocation.

Types of Shoulder X-Ray

Different shoulder X-ray views are used depending on what part of the shoulder needs evaluation:

• Anteroposterior (AP) View: Standard view showing the overall shoulder joint alignment.
  
• Axial Shoulder X-Ray (also called axial or axillary view): Helps detect dislocations, especially posterior dislocations.
  
• Y View Shoulder X-Ray: Especially useful to identify shoulder dislocations when the patient is in too much pain to raise the arm.
  
• Clavicle X-Ray: Focuses specifically on the collarbone for fractures or injuries.
  
• Scapular View: Assesses the shoulder blade and posterior shoulder structures.
  

These different views help provide a comprehensive look at shoulder anatomy from multiple angles.

How to Prepare for a Shoulder X-Ray

Preparation for a shoulder X-ray is minimal:

• You may be instructed to either sit or lie down while positioning your wrist on the X-ray plate for the scan.
  
• Remove jewelry or metal accessories near the shoulder or neck.
  
• Women may be asked to remove bras with metal underwires or fastenings as they can interfere with the image.
  
• Inform the radiographer if you're pregnant or suspect pregnancy.
  

The procedure is generally safe, but pregnant women should avoid unnecessary radiation unless deemed essential.

Shoulder X-Ray Procedure

The X-ray of the shoulder typically takes 10–15 minutes:

1. You will be asked to sit, stand, or lie down, depending on the view needed.
   
2. The radiographer will position your arm and shoulder to get clear images of the joint.
   
3. You must remain still while the image is taken to avoid blurring.
   
4. Sometimes, multiple views like axial, AP, or Y-view shoulder X-rays are taken.
   

The process is completely non-invasive and painless, though movement may be slightly uncomfortable if you have a shoulder injury.

Cost of Private Shoulder X-Ray

The cost of a private shoulder X-ray in the UK can range between £80 to £200, depending on the clinic, location, and whether multiple views are needed. Additional charges may apply for radiologist reports or same-day appointments.

Private diagnostic centres typically offer faster appointments and access to digital reports, making it easier to coordinate with your orthopaedic specialist or GP.

Book Your Private Shoulder X-Ray Near You

If you're experiencing shoulder pain, suspect a dislocation, or need an image for post-operative monitoring, don’t delay diagnosis.

GetScanned offers quick appointments at trusted UK clinics with same-day results for shoulder X-rays, including anterior/posterior dislocation, clavicle injuries, and fracture checks. Our radiology partners use high-quality digital X-rays for accurate assessments.

✓ Fast Appointments
✓ Affordable Private Prices
✓ Trusted Radiologists
✓ Clinics Near You

Ready to Get Your Shoulder Checked?

Book your private shoulder X-ray near you today and receive expert analysis—whether you’re dealing with injury, pain, or just need peace of mind.

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