A Hand and wrist X-ray is a x-ray test of the hand and wrist. It shows fractures, arthritis, bone age in children. Typical effective dose 0.001 mSv, similar to under a day of natural background radiation (about 3 mSv a year).
General health information, not a diagnosis. In an emergency, call 102. Always consult a qualified health professional.
Fractures, arthritis, bone age in children.
Injury, joint swelling, growth assessment.
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.
X-ray
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.
What does a hand x-ray show?
Fractures, arthritis, bone age in children.
Why is a hand x-ray done?
Injury, joint swelling, growth assessment.
How do I prepare for a hand x-ray?
Usually no preparation. Remove metal and jewellery from the area. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant.
Does a hand x-ray use radiation?
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.
How long does a hand x-ray take?
a few minutes
Why is Hand and wrist X-ray done?
Injury, joint swelling, growth assessment.
How do I prepare for Hand and wrist X-ray?
Usually no preparation. Remove metal and jewellery from the area. Tell staff if you are or might be pregnant.
Is Hand and wrist 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.