Five signs you may need an X-ray after an injury

Medically reviewed by Dr. Betsy Koickel, MD on May 8th, 2025.

If you are injured and in pain, especially if the injury involves an arm or a leg, you might be wondering if you have a fracture or broken bone. An X-ray can help your healthcare provider determine if a fracture is present.

When is an X-ray necessary after an injury?

An X-ray might be necessary after an injury if you are in severe pain or have swelling, bruising, inability to bear weight, a visible deformity or a suspected fracture or dislocation. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a few days, an X-ray may also be needed to rule out hidden fractures.

Five signs you may need an X-ray

Here are five signs you might need an X-ray:

1. Severe pain that doesn’t improve

If you were injured a few days ago and the pain hasn’t improved after 24-48 hours with rest or with over-the-counter pain medications, you may want to see a healthcare provider. They can evaluate the injury and recommend an X-ray if appropriate.

2. Swelling and bruising around the injury

Swelling and bruising are usually indications of an immune response and injury, but can also be signs of a fracture. If the swelling persists, it may indicate a hidden fracture and an X-ray might be recommended.

3. Limited range of motion or inability to bear weight

If you can’t move your wrist or put weight on your ankle after an injury, you might have a fracture. A complete break will be extremely painful and you will be unable to move the area at all. A minor fracture may allow some movement, but an X-ray may still be required to evaluate the injury.

4. Visible deformity or misalignment

If you can visibly see that the bone is broken and is protruding out of the skin or misaligned, you likely need an X-ray to determine the severity of the fracture and the next steps that need to be taken. Not treating the fracture can result in improper healing and a permanent deformity.

5. A popping sound or sensation at the time of injury

A popping sound at the time of injury may indicate a break, ligament tear or tendon rupture. An X-ray might be necessary to determine if there is a fracture or if further imaging is needed to determine the type of injury.

What can an X-ray detect?

An X-ray can detect injuries involving bones, fractures, dislocations and joint issues. It can also be used to diagnose some lung or chest conditions. It does not diagnose sprains, strains or other soft tissue injuries, which may require an MRI or other types of testing for diagnosis.

Can urgent care centers do X-rays?

Yes, urgent care centers can do X-rays. An evaluation by a healthcare provider will be required before the X-ray to determine if it is the right type of test for your injury. 

To get started, find the center nearest you and walk in or save your spot online. We are open seven days a week with extended hours to help you feel better faster.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about urgent care X-rays:

Does urgent care do X-rays?

Yes, urgent care centers offer X-rays for injuries or imaging of other medical concerns.

Can urgent care do X-rays for fractures?

Yes, urgent care centers can perform an X-ray to check for fractures.

What can you see on an X-ray?

X-rays can show bones, fractures, dislocations, joint issues and some lung or chest conditions.

Can you see a sprain on an X-ray?

No, a sprain is a soft tissue injury and an X-ray can only capture bone. Therefore, X-rays do not show sprains.

How long does an X-ray take at urgent care?

The X-ray will only take ten to 15 minutes, but an evaluation is usually required to assess the injury and treatment required. 

What should I do if my X-ray shows a fracture?

Follow the provider’s instructions for treating the fracture. This may include immobilization, pain management and a referral to a specialist.

Do I need a referral to get an X-ray at urgent care?

No, our providers can assess your injury on-site and determine if you need an X-ray. To get started walk in or save your spot online. 

Is an X-ray painful?

No, the X-ray is painless, but positioning the body for the right image may cause mild pain if you have an injury.

Are X-rays safe?

Yes, when used infrequently X-rays are safe, as the radiation exposure is minimal.

How much does an X-ray cost at urgent care?

The cost of the X-ray will depend on your insurance coverage.