Shoulder X-ray
Quick answer: A shoulder X-ray shows the bones of the shoulder joint, including the top of the arm bone, collarbone end and shoulder blade. Doctors order it for shoulder pain, injury, dislocation, stiffness or reduced movement.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 10 to 15 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 your top, necklaces and bra with metal hooks, and wear a gown
- 2You stand or sit with your back against the upright plate
- 3Your arm is turned outward, then inward, if it can move without too much pain
- 4An extra view may be taken from under the arm or across the shoulder
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 shoulder X-ray can show a fracture, a dislocated joint, arthritis, calcium deposits in a tendon, or a high-riding arm bone that can point to a long-standing rotator cuff tear. Tendons themselves need an ultrasound or MRI.
Who usually has this test
People with shoulder pain, stiffness or weakness, a fall onto the shoulder, or a shoulder that has popped out.
Risks and aftercare
Turning a painful arm can hurt briefly; the radiation is low, and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
Names and options
Also called: X-ray shoulder, shoulder joint X-ray
Options
- Front view (AP)
- Front view, both sides
- Front and from-above views (AP and axial)
- Front and side views (AP and lateral)
- Front and side views, both sides
- Side view (lateral)
- Side view, both sides
Listed by the hospital as
- SHOULDER JOINT AP VIEW DIGITAL X-RAY
- SHOULDER AP DIGITAL X-RAY
- SHOULDER AP (BOTH) DIGITAL X-RAY
- SHOULDER AP, AXIAL VIEW DIGITAL X-RAY
- SHOULDER AP, LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
- SHOULDER AP, LATERAL (BOTH) DIGITAL X-RAY
- SHOULDER LATERAL DIGITAL X-RAY
- SHOULDER LATERAL (BOTH) DIGITAL X-RAY
Questions about this test
Can a shoulder X-ray show a frozen shoulder?
Frozen shoulder is a stiffening of the joint lining and usually looks normal on X-ray. The X-ray helps rule out arthritis or other bone causes of stiffness.
Can a shoulder X-ray show a rotator cuff tear?
Not directly, because tendons do not show on X-ray. An ultrasound or MRI is used to see the rotator cuff.
What is calcific tendinitis on a shoulder X-ray?
It means calcium has built up in one of the shoulder tendons, seen as a white spot near the bone. It can cause sudden, severe shoulder pain.
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
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
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.