What Does a Shoulder X Ray Look Like?

This video will go over what an actual shoulder x ray looks like. We discuss why shoulder x rays are usually the first imaging obtained when evaluating shoulder pain. We will also go over the actual radiographic anatomy of the shoulder.
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Please understand that this does not represent the formation of a formal doctor patient relationship and is for educational purposes only. All comments should be considered as informal suggestions regarding any matters of medical care. Please also be aware that this is a public forum and any information you share is not secure.
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[@MiamiNeverIn]

I’m a struggling rad tech student. When looking at an X-ray image of the upper extremities like the shoulder girdle. What are landmarks that allow you to determine pt placement i.e. AP, PA, etc from a visual standpoint. Yes, markers are present but in class we don’t always have them. Any tips or tricks 🙏🏽

[@JeffreyWittyMD]

BTB,
Getting a good x ray can be challenging, even for me. Off the top of my head it may be helpful to palpate the bony anatomy to help guide XR positioning. Obviously, having a good understanding of the anatomy would be critical for this. For example, if you can feel for the coracoid process along the front of the shoulder and center your beam in this location, you would be pretty close to the glenohumeral joint. Perhaps try this for other joints as well. Also, get a hold of some models (in particular "sawbones" - they are pricey so maybe your school can help provide for this). You can hold the model yourself and see how each different XR may change as you reposition the patient.