If you’ve suffered a sudden injury or are experiencing unexplained pain, an X-ray can be a valuable tool to help diagnose the problem. The good news is that many urgent care centers offer on-site digital X-ray services, making it easier than ever to get fast answers and treatment, all in one visit. Whether you’re dealing with a possible fracture, chest discomfort, or joint pain, here’s what to expect when getting an X-ray at urgent care.

Are you looking for reliable X-ray services in the Littleton, CO area? Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl. We’re open seven days a week. Just walk in or plan your visit in advance below.

Schedule an Appointment

Understanding X-Ray Use at Urgent Care

X-rays allow medical providers to see inside the body without surgery. They capture images of bones, joints, and some soft tissues. At urgent care, X-rays are commonly used to diagnose conditions such as:

• Broken bones or dislocations
• Sprains and joint injuries
• Pneumonia or other lung issues
• Kidney stones
• Arthritis or chronic joint pain
• Foreign objects lodged in the body

By having X-ray technology on-site, urgent care centers can offer faster diagnosis and treatment– often avoiding a long wait at the emergency room.

What Happens During Your X-Ray Visit

When you arrive at your urgent care center, you’ll first be seen by a medical provider who will evaluate your symptoms and determine whether an X-ray is necessary. If so, a trained radiologic technologist will guide you through the process. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Preparation

You may be asked to remove jewelry, metal objects or clothing that could interfere with the imaging. A gown may be provided if necessary, depending on the part of the body being X-rayed.

2. Positioning

The technologist will position you in front of the X-ray machine. You may be asked to sit, stand, or lie down, and you’ll need to stay still for a few moments to get a clear image. In some cases, multiple views are taken to ensure a complete picture.

3. Image Capture

The actual imaging process is quick and painless. You may hear a clicking sound from the machine, but you won’t hear anything. The radiologist will usually step behind a protective barrier while the X-ray is taken.

4. Review

Once the images are captured, the provider will review them– either on the spot or shortly after– to look for signs of injury, illness, or abnormalities. In some cases, the images may need further review.

What Happens After Your X-Ray

Once your X-rays have been taken, the urgent care provider will carefully review the images to look for signs of injury. In straightforward cases, such as a visible fracture or dislocation, a diagnosis can be made immediately and treatment can begin during your visit. Depending on what the X-ray reveals, your next steps may be immobilization, pain medication, at-home care, and a follow-up plan. If additional input is needed, the provider will contact you with any updated recommendations and guidance.

Get Walk-In Digital X-Rays at AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl in Littleton, CO

Getting an X-ray at urgent care is a quick, convenient, and effective way to diagnose a wide range of injuries and medical conditions without the long wait times of the ER. Whether you’ve taken a fall, have ongoing joint pain, or are experiencing chest discomfort, on-site X-ray services help provide fast answers and treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Ken Caryl, we understand that injuries and symptoms happen when we least expect them. That’s why we offer walk-in visits, extended hours, and experienced X-ray techs 7 days a week. Visit AFC Ken Caryl for prompt, high-quality care. If you have additional questions about our X-ray services, please contact our team directly at (720) 818-8010.