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A shoulder X-ray shows the bones of your shoulder joint, collarbone and shoulder blade. It checks for fractures, dislocations, arthritis and calcium deposits.
Also called: Shoulder radiograph, Collarbone X-ray, Clavicle X-ray, AC joint X-ray
Find a clinic for your shoulder X-ray
100 clinics offer bulk billing for X-ray — eligibility varies
Where to get a shoulder X-ray
101 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer X-ray.
Clinics for a shoulder X-ray on Radly
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What is a shoulder X-ray?
A shoulder X-ray shows the top of the humerus, the socket of the shoulder blade, the collarbone and the AC joint at the top of the shoulder. It is often the first test for shoulder pain because it quickly rules out bone problems.
You usually stand or sit with your back against the panel. Two or three views are taken with your arm turned in and out, and sometimes a view from above or across your body. The radiographer helps you find positions that don't hurt too much.
X-rays can show calcific tendinitis (calcium in a tendon), but not the rotator cuff tendons themselves. For rotator cuff tears or bursitis, your doctor will usually request a shoulder ultrasound, or an MRI for more detail.
Why your doctor might request a shoulder X-ray
- Shoulder injury from a fall or sport
- Suspected dislocation, or checking after it has been put back in
- Collarbone or AC joint injury
- Long-standing shoulder pain or stiffness
- Arthritis or calcium deposits
Shoulder X-ray: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your shoulder X-ray
- No special preparation is needed.
- Wear a two-piece outfit; you may change into a gown from the waist up.
- Remove necklaces and bra straps with metal clips near the shoulder.
- Tell the radiographer if you are or might be pregnant.
How long it takes: About 10–15 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
A shoulder X-ray needs a referral from a GP, specialist or eligible allied health practitioner, such as a physiotherapist, to attract a Medicare rebate. Many clinics bulk bill X-rays for eligible patients, but the clinic confirms billing for your situation. Your booking on Radly is a request the clinic confirms.
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 shoulder 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.
Shoulder X-ray FAQs
Will a shoulder X-ray show a rotator cuff tear?
No. Tendons don't show on X-ray. A shoulder ultrasound or MRI is used to look for rotator cuff tears.
Why would I need an X-ray and an ultrasound of my shoulder?
They show different things. The X-ray checks bones and calcium deposits, while ultrasound looks at tendons and bursae. Doctors often request both.
Can a physio refer me for a shoulder X-ray?
Physiotherapists can request certain X-rays, including the shoulder, that may attract a Medicare rebate. The clinic confirms billing.
How do I book a shoulder 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 a shoulder 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.
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