Fractures of the radius and ulna.
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
Forearm X-rays are used to diagnose fractures in the radius and ulna, which are bones in the forearm. The procedure is typically painless and usually requires no preparation. The effective radiation dose is very low, approximately 0.001 mSv, which is similar to the natural background radiation received over a day. This level of radiation is considered safe, with the benefits outweighing the small risk, and shielding or alternative imaging techniques can be used if necessary. The procedure usually takes a few minutes and should be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
Fractures of the radius and ulna.
Arm injury.
Usually no preparation. Remove metal and jewellery from the area. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant.
Typical effective dose 0.001 mSv, similar to under a day of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
a few minutes. General information, not a diagnosis. Results must be interpreted by a qualified health worker.
Consult a doctor to interpret results — a single test does not make a diagnosis.
Uses your location once to list the nearest facilities. Nothing is stored.
Why is Forearm X-ray done?
Arm injury.
How do I prepare for Forearm X-ray?
Usually no preparation. Remove metal and jewellery from the area. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant.
Is Forearm X-ray safe in pregnancy?
Typical effective dose 0.001 mSv, similar to under a day of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year). Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant; the benefit usually outweighs the small risk, and shielding or alternatives can be considered.
SI text CC BY 4.0; RadiologyInfo.org (ACR/RSNA) and MedlinePlus linked as references only, no text copied.