What is a Body Parts X-Ray?

A Body Parts X-Ray is a targeted radiological scan focusing on individual areas of the body, rather than a full-body or regional scan. It is commonly used to assess bones and joints following injury, pain, swelling, or reduced movement.

X-rays use a low dose of ionising radiation to create clear images of bone structure and alignment. This type of imaging is widely used in musculoskeletal assessment and is often the first-line investigation for suspected fractures or joint problems.

Common areas examined include the hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees, ankles, feet, ribs, and clavicle, depending on symptoms and clinical need.

When a Body Parts X-Ray is recommended

A Body Parts X-Ray may be recommended to investigate localised pain, injury, or suspected structural changes.

You may be referred for this scan if you:

• Have pain following trauma or a fall
• Have suspected bone fracture or dislocation
• Experience swelling or reduced joint movement
• Have persistent joint or limb pain
• Need assessment of arthritis or degenerative changes
• Have suspected bone infection or abnormality
• Require follow-up imaging after injury
• Need confirmation of bone healing progress

Benefits of a Body Parts X-Ray

• Accurate assessment of bones and joints
  Provides clear visualisation of bone structure.
• Helps diagnose fractures and dislocations
  Often the first imaging test after injury.
• Supports treatment and recovery planning
  Guides orthopaedic or physiotherapy care.
• Quick and non-invasive procedure
  Imaging completed within minutes.
• Low radiation exposure
  Uses medically controlled X-ray doses.
• Targeted imaging
  Focuses only on the area of concern.
• Useful for monitoring healing
  Enables follow-up after fractures or surgery.
• Widely available and reliable
  A standard diagnostic imaging tool.

How a Body Parts X-Ray is performed

The scan is performed by a qualified radiographer using professional imaging equipment.

• The affected body part is positioned carefully
• One or more images are taken from different angles
• You may be asked to remain still briefly
• The scan itself takes only a few minutes

No injections or contrast agents are required.

Understanding your Body Parts X-Ray results

Normal findings

The bone and joint structures appear intact and well aligned, with no visible abnormalities.

Typical report:

• Normal X-ray appearance

Fractures or dislocations

The scan may show breaks in the bone, cracks, or joint misalignment.

Typical report:

• Fracture or dislocation identified

Degenerative or chronic changes

Findings may include joint space narrowing, bone spurs, or arthritic changes.

Typical report:

• Degenerative changes noted

Results are reviewed by a qualified clinician alongside symptoms and medical history.