Finger X-ray
Quick answer: A finger X-ray shows the small bones and joints of a finger. Doctors usually order it after a finger injury, or for a swollen, painful or bent finger.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed, but remove metal items from the area and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
How the test is done
- 1You remove all rings from the hand
- 2You sit beside the table and lay your hand flat on the plate
- 3The injured finger is spread away from the others, sometimes on a small foam pad
- 4Front, slightly turned and side views are usually taken
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A radiologist reports on the images, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
A finger X-ray can show a broken or chipped bone, a dislocated joint, a small piece of bone pulled off by a tendon, joint changes from arthritis, or some swallowed or embedded objects such as glass or metal.
Who usually has this test
People who have jammed, crushed or bent back a finger, or have a swollen or bent finger joint.
Risks and aftercare
Straightening a swollen finger can sting for a moment; the X-ray is not felt, the dose to the hand is very small, and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
Names and options
Also called: X-ray finger
Options
- Standard view
- Front and side views (AP and lateral)
Listed by the hospital as
- FINGER DIGITAL X-RAY
- FINGER AP, LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
Questions about this test
What should I do if my ring will not come off a swollen finger?
Tell staff before the X-ray. A ring left on can hide part of the bone and can also cut off blood flow as swelling increases, so it may need to be removed or cut.
Why is only one finger X-rayed instead of the whole hand?
A single finger view shows the small bones and joints more clearly, without other fingers overlapping. If several fingers are hurt, a hand X-ray may be taken instead.
Can a finger X-ray show mallet finger?
Mallet finger is a tendon injury that stops the tip straightening. An X-ray can show if a small piece of bone came away with the tendon, which can change the treatment.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.