Shoulder X-ray (musculoskeletal imaging in primary care)

Shoulder X-ray

• examination is indicated with shoulder pain where impingement syndrome or rotator cuff pathology is suspected, and may highlight OA, calcific tendinitis and reduced subacromial space. A history of shoulder trauma and instability also warrant x-ray

Notes:

General Indications for x-ray examination

• Bony tenderness
• Inability to weight-bear
• Acute joint pain
• Gross joint deformity
• Acute spinal pain in elderly (to rule out osteoporotic wedge fracture)
  
  

Reference:

• 1) Arthritis Research UK (Summer 2013). Hands on - Musculoskeletal imaging for GPs.