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A spine X-ray shows the bones of your mid or lower back. It is used to look at alignment, wear and tear, and fractures, but not discs or nerves.
Also called: Back X-ray, Lumbar spine X-ray, Lower back X-ray, Thoracic spine X-ray
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100 clinics offer bulk billing for X-ray — eligibility varies
Where to get a spine X-ray
101 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer X-ray.
Clinics for a spine X-ray on Radly
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What is a spine X-ray?
A spine X-ray shows the vertebrae of your thoracic spine (mid back) or lumbar spine (lower back), depending on what your doctor has requested. It shows the shape and alignment of the bones and the spaces between them.
Views are usually taken from the front and the side, either standing or lying on the table. Some referrals ask for bending views to see how the spine moves, or a whole-spine view to measure scoliosis.
A spine X-ray can't show discs, nerves or soft tissue. Most new back pain doesn't need imaging at all, and when a disc or nerve problem is suspected, a CT or MRI of the spine is more useful.
Why your doctor might request a spine X-ray
- Back injury after a fall or accident
- Suspected compression fracture, for example in people with osteoporosis
- Measuring scoliosis or changes in spinal curvature
- Checking degenerative change (spondylosis) or slippage of a vertebra
- Follow-up after spinal surgery
Spine X-ray: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your spine X-ray
- No special preparation is needed.
- You will usually change into a gown, so remove clothing with metal such as belts and zips.
- Tell the radiographer if you are or might be pregnant. This is especially important for lower back X-rays.
- Bring any previous spine imaging if it was done at another clinic.
How long it takes: About 15–20 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
Spine X-rays need a referral from a GP, specialist or eligible allied health practitioner (some chiropractors and physiotherapists can request certain spine X-rays) for a Medicare rebate. Many clinics bulk bill X-rays for eligible patients; the clinic confirms billing. Booking on Radly sends a request that 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 spine 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.
Spine X-ray FAQs
Will a back X-ray show a bulging disc?
No. Discs are soft tissue and don't show on X-ray. An MRI or CT is used to look for disc bulges and nerve compression.
Can a chiropractor refer me for a spine X-ray?
Chiropractors can request certain spine X-rays, and some of these attract a Medicare rebate. The clinic confirms billing when you book.
Do I need an X-ray for lower back pain?
Often not. Most back pain improves without imaging. Your doctor will recommend an X-ray if there are warning signs or an injury.
How do I book a spine 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 spine 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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