x-ray and a torn ligament?

Question

would a torn ligament show up on an xray? I saw my dr. last week for pain in my right arm around the bicep and tricep. She thinks it's a torn ligament. She ordered an xray and it came back normal. I'm suppose to start physical therapy at an athletic club but they haven't called me yet to set up an app.

Answer 1

a torn ligament will very unlikely show up on regular xrays except for some unusually circumstances where the tendon pulls a piece of bone off where it normally attachs.

for the most part, a torn biceps or triceps (less common) rupture can be diagnosed clinically (meaning by examination). but realize that these are TENDONS (muscle to bone) and not ligaments (bone to bone).

for example, there would be an unusually large bulge at the middle of the biceps (compared to the other side) called the popeye sign, there would be weakness with certain motions, or perhaps a palpable defect in the area where the tendon is suppose to be.

don't know if saw a regular primary care doc or an orthopedic surgeon. if there is any doubt, a MRI can help a lot.
i wouldn't proceed with any physical therapy until you have a diagnosis. realize that a torn ligament/tendon should not be confused with tendonitis which has completely different implications.
good luck

Answer 2

Torn Ligament X Ray

Answer 3

You need to get a MRI instead of X-Ray. X-ray shows broken and injured bones, but MRI shows tear ligaments. What you can do get x ray in a cd , so doctors can zoom in out and in. This doesn't mean you should not get MRI. Get Both!!!

Answer 4

For the best answers, search on this site https://shorturl.im/aycqD

They always start with an x-ray. If necessary, other tests will be ordered after.