Private Shoulder X-ray Scan from £169
A shoulder X-ray provides images of the shoulder bones and joint alignment. It is commonly used after injury and to investigate pain, restricted movement or suspected arthritis.
What can a shoulder X-ray scan assess?
X-rays show bone position and joint alignment but do not directly show the rotator cuff tendons, labrum or most soft-tissue problems.
Why might a clinician recommend this scan?
- Assessment of suspected fracture or dislocation
- Investigation of shoulder pain or reduced movement
- Assessment of arthritis or bony changes
- Review of selected post-treatment findings
How to prepare
Usually no special preparation is required. Remove jewellery or clothing items near the shoulder if requested and tell the team if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
Safety and limitations
X-ray uses ionising radiation, generally at a low dose. Severe injury, deformity or a cold/numb arm needs urgent clinical assessment.
X-ray uses ionising radiation. The imaging team considers whether the examination is justified for your clinical question and uses an appropriate protocol.
How does it compare with other scans?
Ultrasound or MRI may be used if a tendon tear or other soft-tissue problem is suspected.
More than a scan: doctor-led care before and after
Your scan is part of a supported care pathway. You do not need to arrange your own referral.
Before your scan: GP consultation
Discuss your symptoms, medical history and concerns with a GP. This helps you understand whether the scan is appropriate and what the examination is intended to investigate. If imaging is clinically appropriate, PrivateScans arranges the referral as part of the process.
After your scan: understand the report
Your images are reviewed and reported by a Consultant Radiologist. Your post-scan GP consultation gives you an opportunity to discuss the report in context, ask questions and understand possible next steps.
Included with your service
- Pre-scan GP consultation
- Private medical referral where appropriate
- Consultant Radiologist’s report
- Digital access to your images and report
- Post-scan GP consultation
- Dedicated Patient Care Team support
Consultation fee: You pay £25 when you book. If you proceed with the scan, the £25 is deducted from the scan price. If you do not proceed, you pay only the £25 consultation fee.
Shoulder X-ray scan FAQs
Practical answers about booking, preparation, reporting and the clinical pathway.
How much does a private shoulder x-ray scan cost?
A private shoulder x-ray scan starts from £169. You pay £25 for the pre-scan GP consultation when you book. If you go ahead with the scan, the £25 is deducted from the scan price. If you decide not to proceed, you only pay the £25 consultation fee. If you are unsure whether this scan is right for you, speak to a doctor today.
Do I need a referral?
No, you do not need to arrange your own referral. You start with a pre-scan GP consultation with PrivateScans. The GP discusses your symptoms and medical history and, if the scan is clinically appropriate, PrivateScans arranges the referral as part of the process.
Who reports my scan?
Your images are reviewed and formally reported by a Consultant Radiologist. The written report explains the imaging findings; your post-scan GP consultation helps you discuss the results in the context of your symptoms and possible next steps.
When will I receive my report?
Your Consultant Radiologist’s report is usually available within 3 days of your scan.
What happens before and after the scan?
Your service includes a pre-scan GP consultation, referral arrangements where imaging is clinically appropriate, the scan, a Consultant Radiologist’s report, digital access to your images and report, a post-scan GP consultation and support from the Patient Care Team.
Can a shoulder X-ray show a rotator cuff tear?
Can a shoulder X-ray show a rotator cuff tear? No, the tendons are not directly visible on standard X-rays; ultrasound or MRI may be needed.
Unsure whether this scan is right for you?
Speak to a doctor about your symptoms and the most appropriate next step.