Book a wrist X-ray
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A wrist X-ray looks at the forearm bones and the small carpal bones of your wrist. It is the standard first test after falling onto an outstretched hand.
Also called: Wrist radiograph, Scaphoid X-ray, Broken wrist X-ray, Distal radius X-ray
Find a clinic for your wrist X-ray
100 clinics offer bulk billing for X-ray — eligibility varies
Where to get a wrist X-ray
101 clinics across Melbourne and Victoria on Radly offer X-ray.
Clinics for a wrist X-ray on Radly
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What is a wrist X-ray?
A wrist X-ray shows the ends of the radius and ulna (your forearm bones) and the eight small carpal bones that make up the wrist. A broken wrist, most often a fracture of the radius, is one of the most common injuries seen in X-ray clinics.
You sit at the side of the X-ray table with your forearm resting on a flat panel. Standard views are taken from the front and the side, and an angled view may be added. If the doctor is worried about the scaphoid bone, extra scaphoid views are taken with your wrist turned in different directions.
X-rays don't show ligaments or cartilage. If your wrist stays painful with a normal X-ray, your doctor may arrange an MRI or ultrasound.
Why your doctor might request a wrist X-ray
- Pain and swelling after falling onto your hand
- Suspected scaphoid fracture (pain at the base of the thumb)
- Checking a wrist fracture is healing in a good position
- Wrist arthritis or long-standing wrist pain
- Sports injuries, such as from skateboarding or netball
Wrist X-ray: preparation, referral & Medicare
Preparing for your wrist X-ray
- No special preparation is needed.
- Remove watches, bracelets and rings.
- If you are wearing a plaster cast, the X-ray can usually be taken through it.
- Tell the radiographer if you are or might be pregnant.
How long it takes: About 10–15 minutes
Referral, Medicare & bulk billing
A referral from a GP, specialist or eligible allied health practitioner, such as a physiotherapist, is needed for a Medicare rebate. Many clinics bulk bill wrist X-rays for eligible patients; the clinic confirms billing when you book. Injuries from work or road accidents may be claimed through WorkCover or TAC.
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 wrist 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.
Wrist X-ray FAQs
Why do I need another wrist X-ray in two weeks?
Scaphoid fractures often don't show on the first X-ray. A repeat X-ray after 10–14 days, or an MRI, can show a fracture once it has started to heal.
Can I get a wrist X-ray with my cast on?
Yes. X-rays pass through plaster and fibreglass, so the cast usually stays on for follow-up images.
Is a sprained wrist visible on X-ray?
A sprain affects ligaments, which don't show on X-ray. The X-ray is mainly used to rule out a broken bone.
How do I book a wrist 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 wrist 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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