Upper extremity X-rays may be of the fingers, hands, wrists, elbows, forearms upper arms or shoulders. These X-rays can help to find injuries (fractures and sports injuries), joint swelling (arthritis), weakened bones (osteoporosis) or other abnormalities that may be causing pain.

Depending on the site of the pain, the patient may be asked to stand, lie on the exam table or sit in a chair. The technologist takes multiple pictures of the painful area. The patient may be required to turn in various ways so images can be taken from different angles. The technologist may use sponges or sand bags to help hold the arm still for each image. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes.