To have an X-ray of both shoulders (AP & LAT View), visit Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, an NABL- and NABH-accredited centre for providing services related to Radiology and diagnostic imaging. This examination yields X-rays that visualize both shoulders both side-by-side and in front and back to assist in the evaluation of the bone structure, joint alignment as well as fractures, joint dislocations, degenerative changes and visible abnormalities. X-rays of both shoulders may be used to evaluate patients if it is clinically warranted and/or to compare the size and appearance of the shoulders.

About X-Ray Both Shoulders AP & LAT View

X-RAY Both Shoulders AP & LAT View is a diagnostic X-ray that is obtained to help examine the architecture (structure) and bony relationships of the right and left shoulder joints. The examination is performed with varying projections to get complementary information of the humeral heads, glenoid areas, clavicles, acromion processes, and other bones around the shoulder that can be seen. The test might be ordered for people with any of the following, or a combination of them: Shoulder pain, Stiffness or swelling in the shoulder, Limited arm motion, or symptoms after an injury. It can also be used to assess possible cases of arthritis, fractures, dislocations, and specific bone abnormalities.

What is X-Ray Both Shoulders AP & LAT View?

For X-ray imaging, a very small dose of ionizing radiation is used to produce images of the bones and joints. In both the AP and lateral projections, the shoulder areas are imaged at different angles, which aids in determining the shape of the bones, spaces of the shoulder joints, and the alignment between them.

• AP View (Anteroposterior): Provides a front-to-back projection of the shoulder and helps assess the humeral head, glenoid region, and visible surrounding bones.
• LAT View (Lateral): Provides an additional projection that helps evaluate shoulder alignment and the position of the bones from a different angle. The exact lateral projection depends on the radiographic technique requested.

Common Reasons for X-Ray Both Shoulders AP & LAT View

• Joint Dislocation: Examination of the position of the shoulder joint when there is a suspected dislocation.
• Shoulder Stiffness: Finding a way to raise the arm is a challenge, or movement is restricted.
• Arthritis suspected: Determine the level of arthritis changes in the shoulder joints.
• Swelling and Tenderness: Evaluation of signs and symptoms of the injuries or joint disease.
• Bilateral Shoulder Symptoms: Exam of both shoulders when affected by symptoms on both sides (when pain and/or functional issues are present in both shoulders).
• Bone Alignment Assessment: Assessment of the visibility of joint positioning and structural alignment.
• Follow-Up After Injury: After injury review of specific fractures, dislocations, or other bone problems.
• Post-Treatment Assessment: Evaluation of the bone alignment that can be seen after selected surgical and/or non-surgical treatments.

Conditions Evaluated

Shoulder Fractures

An X-ray can confirm the presence of fractures (broken bones) in the visible bones in and around the shoulder area, including the proximal humerus, clavicle, and scapula. There are different projections to help illustrate where and the general pattern of a fracture and may help to show displacement or angulation of the fracture.

Shoulder Dislocation and Joint Alignment

The examination will give some idea of the position of the humeral head in relation to the glenoid. May show dislocations or other alignment problems of the shoulder joint.

Osteoarthritis and Degenerative Joint Changes

Osteoarthritis of the joints can be seen with X-rays as joint space narrowing, osteophytes (bone spurs), and abnormal changes in the bone surfaces of the joint. When included, these findings may help evaluate degenerative changes of the acromioclavicular (AC) joint or shoulder joint.

Bone Alignment and Structural Abnormalities

They are complementary to each other; the AP view shows information about the alignment and the shape of the bones around the shoulder joint on that side of the body, and the lateral view shows information about the shape and the alignment of the bones around the other side of the same shoulder. They will detect specific deformities, abnormal bone positions, or other abnormalities in the structures.

Clavicle and Scapular Abnormalities

The study will show parts of the clavicle and scapula depending on the angle captured. Xray might assist in determining the number of fractures and detectable changes in the bones' structures. Specific clavicle and scapular views might be necessary if symptoms are specific to a particular area or if the images obtained on a routine assessment produce inadequate information.

Joint-Space Changes

Radiographs are useful for information regarding the joints visible on the film and the relationship of the bones that make up the shoulder joints. Stenosis and/or irregularity can be a clue to degenerative changes or other structural abnormalities. The results are evaluated along with the patient's signs and symptoms and medical history.

Follow-Up of Shoulder Injuries

Re-take X-rays can be taken to check on the healing of bones or changes after a fracture or dislocation. Previous images will be compared when the doctor is treating the patient for a second time.

Post-Traumatic Bone Changes

Visual abnormalities in bone may be noted, such as deformities, fractures, or misalignment, which may be a result of previous trauma. A more work-up may be indicated if symptoms continue with normal radiographs.

Why Choose Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy?

Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy is an NABL & NABH Accredited Diagnostic Centre that is also accredited for Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Pathology services. Our diagnostic imaging practice focuses on using the right procedure, quality radiographs, study analysis and interpretation, and patient sensitivity. We are looking to give good and accurate imaging information to help referring physicians assess shoulder problems, formulate treatment plans, and keep an eye on certain abnormalities.

Book Your X-Ray Both Shoulders AP & LAT View

If you have been recommended to have an X-ray Both Shoulders AP & LAT View, contact Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy to arrange an appointment and availability. If you have any past medical records, X-rays, MRI or CT scans of your shoulder, or current prescriptions, please bring these with you for evaluation and comparison. Promptly seek medical evaluation if the shoulder pain is severe after any kind of injury, or if there is weakness or numbness of the arm after the injury.