Book an elbow X-ray
near you
An elbow X-ray shows the joint where your upper arm meets your forearm. It is commonly used after falls, especially in children, to check for fractures.
Also called: Elbow radiograph, Broken elbow X-ray, Radial head X-ray, Arm X-ray
Find a clinic for your elbow X-ray
100 clinics offer bulk billing for X-ray — eligibility varies
Where to get an elbow X-ray
101 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer X-ray.
Clinics for an elbow X-ray on Radly
See all 101 →
What is an elbow X-ray?
An elbow X-ray shows the end of the humerus (upper arm bone) and the tops of the radius and ulna. Elbow fractures are common after falls, and a radial head fracture is a frequent adult injury.
You sit beside the X-ray table. The usual views are a front view with your arm straight and palm up, and a side view with the elbow bent at a right angle. If you can't straighten your arm, the radiographer adapts the views.
Some fractures are hard to see directly, but the radiologist also looks for signs such as fluid in the joint, which can point to a hidden break. Tendon problems like tennis elbow don't show on X-ray and are usually assessed with ultrasound.
Why your doctor might request an elbow X-ray
- Pain, swelling or inability to straighten the elbow after a fall
- Elbow injuries in children from playgrounds or trampolines
- Suspected dislocation
- Elbow arthritis or loose bodies causing locking
- Checking healing after a fracture
Elbow X-ray: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your elbow X-ray
- No special preparation is needed.
- Wear a short-sleeved or loose top so your arm is easy to expose.
- Tell the radiographer if you are or might be pregnant.
- For children, bring a favourite toy or distraction and the referral.
How long it takes: About 10–15 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
An elbow X-ray needs a referral from a GP, specialist or eligible allied health practitioner for a Medicare rebate. Many clinics bulk bill X-rays for eligible patients; the clinic confirms billing when you book. Not every clinic lists elbow X-ray separately, but general X-ray clinics routinely perform it.
How it works
Get your referral
Most scans need a referral from your GP, specialist, or other health practitioner.
Compare clinics
Find clinics near you for your elbow X-ray and compare bulk billing, reviews, and location.
Send your request
Share your preferred timing and send the clinic your details and referral when available.
Clinic confirms
The clinic reviews your request and confirms your appointment and any preparation needed.
If the clinic hasn’t acknowledged your request after 24 hours, Radly will follow up. We check in by SMS during daytime hours where SMS is available and you haven’t opted out. Reply N if you haven’t been contacted and our team will follow up. Acknowledgment does not mean an appointment is booked.
Elbow X-ray FAQs
Will an elbow X-ray show tennis elbow?
Usually not. Tennis elbow affects tendons, which X-rays don't show. Ultrasound is the more common test for it.
Can my child have an elbow X-ray?
Yes. Elbow X-rays are very common in children and use a low dose. A parent can usually stay in the room.
Why did the radiologist mention a fat pad sign?
A raised fat pad suggests fluid in the joint, which can mean a fracture that isn't clearly visible. Your doctor may treat it as a fracture or arrange follow-up.
How do I book an elbow X-ray online?
Choose a clinic on Radly, select X-Ray as your scan, add your preferred timing and attach your referral, then send your booking request. The clinic contacts you to confirm the appointment and any preparation.
How soon can I get an elbow X-ray?
Appointments for X-ray are walk-in or same day at most clinics, depending on the clinic and the exam. You can send a request on Radly at any time, and the clinic replies with its next available time.
Related scans
Helpful guides
Ready to book your elbow X-ray?
Compare clinics near you and send a booking request in minutes.
Find a clinic