Hand radiography — is a diagnostic examination that helps assess the condition of the bones, joints, and small structures of the hand. Hand X-ray is often prescribed for pain, injuries, swelling, limited mobility, finger deformity, or suspected fracture, dislocation, osteoarthritis, or other changes in the musculoskeletal system.
At the HBMedical medical center in Kyiv, near Shuliavska metro station, you can undergo X-ray of both hands in one or two views. This examination format allows the doctor to assess both hands, compare the symmetry of changes, and obtain more information for further consultation.
Hand X-ray may be needed both after an injury and in cases of chronic pain, suspected joint disease, or follow-up after treatment.
When Is Hand Radiography Prescribed?

Hand X-ray is prescribed when it is necessary to assess the condition of bones, joints, finger phalanges, metacarpal bones, and the wrist. The examination may be recommended by a traumatologist, orthopedist, rheumatologist, surgeon, family doctor, or another specialist.
The most common indications for hand X-ray include:
- pain in the hands or fingers;
- hand injury, impact, fall;
- suspected fracture or crack;
- suspected dislocation or subluxation;
- swelling of the hand or fingers;
- limited mobility;
- finger deformity;
- pain in the hand joints;
- morning stiffness in the fingers;
- suspected osteoarthritis or arthritis;
- follow-up after injury, surgery, or treatment;
- the need to compare the condition of the right and left hand.
Hand radiography helps the doctor quickly obtain basic information about the condition of bone structures and determine whether additional diagnostic methods are needed.
What Types of Hand Radiography Are Available at HBMedical?
At HBMedical, you can undergo radiography of both hands in one of two formats:
| Service | When it may be prescribed |
| X-ray of both hands in one view | When a basic overview image is sufficient for the doctor or when both hands need to be compared in one position |
| X-ray of both hands in two views | When a more detailed assessment of bones, joints, a possible fracture, deformity, or changes from different positions is needed |
The choice between one and two views depends on symptoms, the clinical situation, and the doctor’s recommendations. If you have a referral, it is advisable to bring it with you or inform the administrator of the exact name of the prescribed examination.
X-ray of Both Hands in One View
X-ray of both hands in one view — is an examination during which an image of both hands is taken in one position. This format may be used for a basic assessment of bones and joints, as well as for comparison of the right and left hand.
One view may be appropriate if it is necessary to:
- assess the general condition of the hands;
- compare both hands with each other;
- detect gross changes in bone structures;
- perform a follow-up examination;
- assess the symmetry of joint changes;
- take an image as prescribed by a doctor.
This examination option may be sufficient in certain clinical situations. However, if there is suspicion of fracture, displacement, complex injury, or small changes, the doctor may recommend X-ray in two views.
X-ray of Both Hands in Two Views
X-ray of both hands in two views provides more diagnostic information than a single image. Images are taken from different positions, which allows better assessment of bones, joints, possible fracture lines, displacement, deformities, or other changes.
Two views are often prescribed for:
- hand injuries;
- suspected fracture;
- pain after a fall or impact;
- finger deformity;
- limited mobility;
- suspected displacement of bone structures;
- the need to assess hand joints in more detail;
- preparation for consultation with a traumatologist or orthopedist.
For many trauma-related situations, two views are more informative because one view does not always allow full visualization of the nature of the injury.
What Does a Hand X-ray Show?

Hand radiography allows doctors to assess bone structures, joints, and the relative position of hand elements. The examination can help the doctor detect or suspect:
- fractures of the hand bones;
- cracks;
- dislocations and subluxations;
- displacement of bone fragments;
- consequences of old injuries;
- finger deformities;
- signs of osteoarthritis;
- changes in joint spaces;
- bone overgrowths;
- inflammatory or degenerative changes;
- age-related changes in bones and joints;
- abnormal positioning of phalanges or metacarpal bones.
It is important to understand: X-ray is well suited for assessing bones and joint surfaces, but it does not always show the condition of ligaments, tendons, nerves, or soft tissues. If the doctor needs more detailed information about soft tissue structures, ultrasound, MRI, or another examination may be recommended.
Hand X-ray After an Injury
One of the most common reasons for undergoing a hand X-ray — is injury. After a fall, impact, finger twisting, or heavy strain, pain, swelling, limited movement, or deformity may occur.
Hand X-ray after an injury helps assess whether there is:
- a fracture;
- a crack;
- displacement;
- dislocation;
- subluxation;
- damage to joint surfaces.
You should not rely only on the severity of pain. Sometimes even relatively moderate pain may be associated with a fracture or crack. If the hand is swollen after an injury, hurts, the fingers are difficult to bend, or there is visible deformity, it is better to consult a doctor and undergo diagnostics.
Hand X-ray for Joint Pain
Hand radiography may be prescribed not only after injuries, but also for chronic pain, finger stiffness, joint deformity, or suspected degenerative changes.
The examination may be useful for complaints of:
- finger pain;
- pain in the small joints of the hands;
- stiffness of movement;
- crunching or discomfort when bending the fingers;
- gradual finger deformity;
- swelling in the joint area;
- reduced hand strength.
In such cases, X-ray helps assess the condition of joint spaces, bone edges, possible deformities, and signs of osteoarthritic changes. The final interpretation of the results should be made by a doctor, taking into account symptoms, examination findings, and other tests or examinations.
How Is a Hand X-ray Performed?

Hand radiography is quick and usually does not require complex preparation. The patient is asked to place the hands in the required position on a special surface. The X-ray technician helps position the hands correctly so that the image is clear and informative.
During the examination, it is important not to move the hands. This is necessary to prevent the image from being blurred.
The procedure usually includes:
- clarifying the referral or complaints;
- preparing for the image;
- proper positioning of one or both hands;
- taking the image in one or two views;
- checking image quality;
- preparing the result and report.
If radiography of both hands in two views is needed, images are taken from different positions for a more complete assessment.
Is Preparation Needed for Hand X-ray?
Special preparation for hand radiography is usually not needed.
Before the examination, it is advisable to:
- remove rings, bracelets, watches, and other metal objects from the hands;
- bring a doctor’s referral if available;
- bring previous images if hand X-rays were performed earlier;
- inform medical staff about pregnancy or possible pregnancy;
- clarify whether one or two views are needed.
Metal objects may obscure part of the image, so it is better to remove them before the procedure begins.
Is Hand X-ray Safe?
Radiography is a diagnostic method that uses ionizing radiation, so the examination should be performed according to medical indications. The radiation dose during hand X-ray is usually low because a local area is examined.
If X-ray has been prescribed by a doctor, the benefit of diagnostics usually outweighs the potential risks. However, X-ray should not be performed without need or “just in case.”
If you are pregnant or may be pregnant, be sure to inform medical staff before the examination begins. In this case, the decision to perform X-ray is made individually.
Hand X-ray or Ultrasound: Which Is Better?
X-ray and ultrasound have different diagnostic capabilities.
Hand X-ray is better suited for assessing:
- bones;
- joint surfaces;
- fractures;
- cracks;
- dislocations;
- deformities;
- osteoarthritic changes.
Ultrasound may be useful when it is necessary to assess:
- soft tissues;
- tendons;
- ligaments;
- swelling;
- inflammatory changes around the joint;
- fluid formations.
Which examination is needed — X-ray, ultrasound, or another method — is determined by the doctor after examination and analysis of complaints.
Hand Radiography at HBMedical
At the HBMedical medical center, you can undergo X-ray of both hands in one or two views. The center is located in Kyiv, near Shuliavska metro station, which is convenient for patients from different districts of the city.
Advantages of choosing HBMedical:
- X-ray of both hands;
- the possibility of performing the examination in one or two views;
- convenient location near Shuliavska metro station;
- the possibility of booking a diagnostic appointment;
- results for further consultation with a doctor;
- the possibility of undergoing additional examinations or specialist consultations if needed.
If you are concerned about pain in your hands, have had an injury, swelling has appeared, or finger mobility is limited, do not postpone diagnostics. Book a hand X-ray at HBMedical and receive results for further consultation with a doctor.
When Should You Not Delay the Examination?
You should consult a doctor and undergo hand X-ray if:
- pain appeared after an injury;
- the hand or fingers are swollen;
- there is deformity of a finger or hand;
- it is difficult to move the fingers;
- pain does not go away for several days;
- there is suspicion of fracture or dislocation;
- pain worsens with load;
- joint stiffness has appeared;
- finger deformity gradually increases.
Hand radiography helps the doctor assess the condition of bones and joints and determine further steps: treatment, observation, or additional diagnostics.
Conclusion
Hand X-ray — is a fast and informative diagnostic method that helps assess the condition of bones, joints, finger phalanges, and metacarpal bones. The examination may be needed after injury, in cases of pain, swelling, finger deformity, limited mobility, or suspected osteoarthritic or inflammatory changes.
At HBMedical, X-ray of both hands in one view and X-ray of both hands in two views are available. The choice of format depends on symptoms, the clinical situation, and the doctor’s recommendations.
If you need a hand X-ray in Kyiv near Shuliavska metro station, contact HBMedical and book a convenient appointment time.
FAQ
What Does a Hand X-ray Show?
Hand X-ray allows doctors to assess bones, joints, finger phalanges, metacarpal bones, possible fractures, cracks, dislocations, deformities, and degenerative changes.
What Is the Difference Between Hand X-ray in One and Two Views?
One view provides a basic image of the hands in one position. Two views allow structures to be assessed from different angles, so they are often more informative for injuries, pain, or suspected fracture.
When Is X-ray of Both Hands Needed?
X-ray of both hands may be needed to compare the right and left hand, assess symmetrical changes, joint pain, finger deformities, or suspected systemic changes in the musculoskeletal system.
Is Preparation Needed for Hand Radiography?
Special preparation is usually not needed. Before the examination, rings, bracelets, watches, and other metal objects should be removed from the hands.
Can Hand X-ray Be Performed During Pregnancy?
If you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy, be sure to inform medical staff before the examination begins. The decision to perform X-ray during pregnancy is made individually according to medical indications.
How Much Does Hand X-ray Cost at HBMedical?
The cost depends on the type of examination: one or two views. The current price of hand radiography can be checked on the HBMedical website or when booking an appointment.
Where Can I Get a Hand X-ray in Kyiv?
Hand radiography can be performed at the HBMedical medical center in Kyiv, near Shuliavska metro station. Available examination options include X-ray of both hands in one or two views.






























