No, you don't feel anything at all from the exposure itself. Only the positioning may be uncomfortable if the region being examined is already painful — tell the specialist, they will help you with positioning.

How harmful is the radiation?

The dose from a single exposure is low and comparable to a few days of natural background radiation. Nevertheless, X-rays are only taken if the image answers a specific question — and during pregnancy only if unavoidable.

How quickly will I have the result?

The images are available digitally immediately. In many practices, the doctor discusses the findings with you directly afterwards.

Can you see ligaments and tendons on an X-ray image?

Barely — X-rays primarily show bones. For ligaments, tendons, cartilage or intervertebral discs, ultrasound or MRI are more suitable. Your doctor will decide which imaging method fits your case.

Do I have to go to hospital for an X-ray?

Not necessarily. Many GP practices, orthopaedic practices and X-ray institutes perform examinations directly on site, often without long waiting times.

X-ray — Procedure, Preparation & Cost

X-ray imaging is the classic and fastest form of imaging: within a few minutes, an image of bones, joints or the lungs is created. It is often the first step when investigating a broken bone, joint wear or pneumonia.

Typical Areas of Use

Suspected bone fracture after a fall or accident
Investigation of joint wear (osteoarthritis)
Lung examination, for example in cases of suspected pneumonia
Monitoring the healing process after a fracture
Assessment of misalignments

How It Works

1You remove jewellery and metal objects in the area being examined; depending on the region, you may need to remove the relevant item of clothing.
2The specialist positions you standing, sitting or lying down and directs the device precisely at the region to be examined.
3For the exposure, you hold still for a few seconds — for lung images, you briefly hold your breath. Usually two images are taken from different angles.
4The images are immediately available digitally and are assessed by the doctor and discussed with you.

How to Prepare

No special preparation is necessary; practical clothing that can easily be removed in the examination area is helpful.
You must report a possible pregnancy before the examination.

Side Effects & Risks

The radiation dose from a single exposure is low — for many exposures, roughly equivalent to what you would absorb from a few days of natural background radiation.
During pregnancy, X-rays are only taken if absolutely necessary; therefore always report a possible pregnancy.
Soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons or intervertebral discs are barely assessable on X-ray images — sometimes ultrasound, CT or MRI may be needed as a supplement.

Afterwards — and When to Seek Help

After the X-ray, there is nothing special to watch out for — you can return to your daily routine immediately and are fully fit to drive. The only important thing is to discuss the findings: clarify with your doctor what the image shows and what steps may follow. Contact your doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen despite an unremarkable image.

Cost & Insurance

X-rays ordered by a doctor are usually covered by basic health insurance; the deductible and co-payment apply as usual. Many GP and orthopaedic practices can perform X-rays directly on site. If in doubt, ask your health insurance provider; this information is for guidance only and without guarantee.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does an X-ray hurt?: No, you don't feel anything at all from the exposure itself. Only the positioning may be uncomfortable if the region being examined is already painful — tell the specialist, they will help you with positioning.
How harmful is the radiation?: The dose from a single exposure is low and comparable to a few days of natural background radiation. Nevertheless, X-rays are only taken if the image answers a specific question — and during pregnancy only if unavoidable.
How quickly will I have the result?: The images are available digitally immediately. In many practices, the doctor discusses the findings with you directly afterwards.
Can you see ligaments and tendons on an X-ray image?: Barely — X-rays primarily show bones. For ligaments, tendons, cartilage or intervertebral discs, ultrasound or MRI are more suitable. Your doctor will decide which imaging method fits your case.
Do I have to go to hospital for an X-ray?: Not necessarily. Many GP practices, orthopaedic practices and X-ray institutes perform examinations directly on site, often without long waiting times.