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When Should You Get an X-Ray for an Injury?

Care-decision guidance for imaging after common injuries.

X-ray is used when a provider suspects a fracture or needs to rule one out after an injury — not for every bump or bruise.

Consider evaluation with possible X-ray when: You cannot bear weight on a leg, have severe pain over a bone, heard a snap at injury, or symptoms are not improving after several days.

Ankle injuries: Ottawa ankle rules and clinical exam guide imaging decisions — your provider applies evidence-based criteria during your visit.

Wrist and hand: Falls onto an outstretched hand commonly injure wrist bones — X-ray may be recommended when tenderness is present.

Skip unnecessary imaging: Mild soft-tissue injuries without red flags may heal with conservative care and follow-up if needed.

NeuMed: Walk-in injury evaluation with on-site X-ray at select Houston clinics.

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