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X-Ray Imaging (In-Office)

Quick imaging of your bones and joints

X-ray is the fastest way to look at bones, and we do it on-site at most LAOSS offices, so you often walk out of your first visit with a diagnosis instead of an imaging referral. Same-day or next-week evaluations across eight LA-area offices.

X-Ray Imaging at LAOSS orthopedic clinic in Los Angeles. Board-certified specialists, same-day appointments

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Board-certified surgeons and podiatrists across eight Los Angeles area neighborhoods.

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Key takeaways

  • X-ray imaging is part of the full diagnostic and treatment toolkit our LAOSS specialists use every day.
  • X-ray is the fastest way to look at bones, and we do it on-site at most LAOSS offices, so you often walk out of your first visit with a diagnosis instead of an imaging referral.
  • Most patients improve when treatment starts early and is matched to the actual diagnosis.
  • Same-day appointments available across eight Los Angeles-area offices.

About in-office X-ray imaging

X-Ray Imaging (In-Office) is part of the orthopedic care we offer at LAOSS. Below, we walk through the anatomy involved, who benefits from this service, what it looks like at our clinics, and the preparation and safety considerations to weigh.

Our specialists move stepwise: start with the least-invasive option that fits, escalate only when it doesn't.

Watch: Bone Density Scan (DXA or DEXA)

This is a type of x-ray that measures your bone density. Your doctor may recommend it if you're at risk for osteoporosis (that's a weakening of your bones). This scan is a quick and easy way to check for signs of bone density loss.

Animations licensed from ViewMedica · Swarm Interactive
Anatomical illustration of a joint showing cartilage, ligaments, and surrounding muscle
General orthopedic anatomy: joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscle.

Inside the musculoskeletal system.

Most musculoskeletal pain comes from bone, cartilage, a ligament or tendon, muscle, or a nerve. The right care starts with the right diagnosis.

What we offer with in-office X-ray imaging.

Common symptoms

  • Comprehensive orthopedic evaluation
  • Same-day imaging at most offices
  • Conservative-first care plan tailored to your goals
  • Coordinated specialty referrals when needed
  • In-network insurance for most major carriers

Common causes

  • New patients exploring an orthopedic complaint
  • Existing LAOSS patients continuing care
  • Patients seeking a second opinion
  • Athletes and active adults of every age

How we start treatment

When you book with LAOSS for X-ray imaging (in-office), here's the flow:

  • Initial visit: detailed history, focused exam, on-site X-ray when needed
  • Diagnosis & plan: most patients leave with imaging-confirmed answers and a written treatment plan
  • Treatment: whether that's PT, an injection, or surgery, your specialist stays involved at every step
  • Follow-up: measured benchmarks, direct line to your care team, plan adjustments as recovery progresses

Orthopedic care, conservative-first.

We start with the least-invasive option that fits, and escalate only when it doesn't.

Conservative care
Step 1

Conservative care first

Non-surgical options designed to relieve pain, restore movement, and avoid the OR when possible.

  • Physical therapy & focused strengthening
  • Image-guided steroid injections
  • Activity & ergonomic modification
  • NSAIDs & topical anti-inflammatories
  • PRP & regenerative therapies
Surgical care
When needed

Surgical options when needed

Minimally invasive and reconstructive procedures performed by board-certified orthopedic surgeons.

  • Arthroscopy when minimally invasive surgery fits
  • Tendon / ligament reconstruction or repair
  • Fracture fixation
  • Joint replacement when arthritis is advanced
  • Pain procedures for chronic conditions

Why experience matters.

Why experience matters

Orthopedic care is highly technique-dependent. Volume, training, and judgment together determine the outcome you feel six months later.

  • Precise diagnosis from imaging and exam
  • Conservative-first care that avoids unnecessary surgery
  • Technique refined over thousands of cases
  • On-site imaging + coordinated PT through your in-network provider

The LAOSS approach

Our orthopedic specialists move stepwise: start with the least-invasive option that fits, escalate only when it doesn't.

  • Same-day imaging at most offices
  • PT coordinated in your insurance network
  • Board-certified specialists performing the procedures themselves
  • Direct access to your specialist between visits

Am I a candidate?

If most of these match your situation, an evaluation with a orthopedic specialist is the next step.

You may be

You may be a candidate if

These signs typically point toward this service being a good fit.

  • Orthopedic pain or dysfunction lasting more than a few days
  • Swelling, instability, or noticeable change in function
  • Symptoms that limit walking, lifting, sleep, or work
  • Previous treatment that didn't fully resolve the problem
  • Imaging or exam findings that suggest an underlying issue
Evaluation

What evaluation includes

Your first visit is built to give you an answer the same day, not just another referral.

  • Detailed history: onset, mechanism, what makes it better or worse
  • Hands-on exam focused on the affected joint or region
  • On-site imaging at most offices (X-ray, ultrasound)
  • Clear plan with options ranging from conservative to surgical
  • Same-day or next-day scheduling for any follow-up tests

ImportantSeek urgent evaluation for sudden severe pain, numbness, progressive weakness, or any sign of infection (fever, increasing redness or swelling).

What to expect with an X-ray.

Recovery is rarely a straight line, but a clear plan with measurable milestones makes the path predictable.

  1. Before

    Before your X-ray

    There is little to prepare. Most X-rays are taken during your visit.

    • Tell the technologist if you are or might be pregnant
    • Remove jewelry, belts, or clothing with metal over the area
    • Wear loose, comfortable clothing when you can
    • No fasting and no change to your medications
  2. During

    During your X-ray

    The technologist positions the area and takes one or more images. It takes a few minutes.

    • A small dose of radiation, kept as low as possible
    • You hold still for a second or two for each image
    • Several views are often taken from different angles
    • Some positions can be briefly uncomfortable for an injured area
  3. After

    After your X-ray

    There is no recovery time. You can return to normal activity right away.

    • Your specialist reviews the images
    • The findings are matched to your exam and symptoms
    • Some injuries need an MRI, CT, or ultrasound for a closer look
    • Direct line back to your specialist if needed
Risks & considerations

What to weigh before you decide.

We talk through the risks and benefits with every patient. Informed consent is a conversation, not a form.

General

General considerations

An X-ray is quick and painless. There are no needles, incisions, or anesthesia.

  • A small dose of radiation, kept as low as possible for each image
  • Tell the staff if you are or may be pregnant
  • Holding a position can be briefly uncomfortable for an injured area
  • A repeat image is sometimes needed if the first is unclear
Specific

What an X-ray can and cannot show

An X-ray is usually the first imaging test. It is not always the last.

  • Fractures, dislocations, arthritis, and bone alignment show clearly
  • Some small or early stress fractures do not show on a first X-ray
  • Ligaments, tendons, muscles, and cartilage do not show directly
  • An MRI, CT, or ultrasound may be ordered when more detail is needed

Meet our orthopedic specialists

At LAOSS, our orthopedic specialists are board-certified and treat these problems every day. From minimally invasive techniques to coordinating your rehab, our physicians bring decades of experience to every case. We have cared for Los Angeles patients since 2007, with one goal for each: less pain, better movement, and a return to the activities you love.

Specialists, not generalists.

View all providers
Compare up to 34 providers
  • Accepting new patients

    Kevin Pelton, MD

    Orthopedic Surgeon · Founder

    • East Los Angeles
    • Encino
    • Valencia
  • Accepting new patients

    David Barba, MD

    Hip & Knee Surgeon

    Speaks English and Spanish

    Habla español

    • Wilshire
    • East Los Angeles
  • Accepting new patients

    Matthew Longacre, MD

    Sports Medicine · Knee

    • Glendale
    • Encino
    • Valencia
    • +1 more
  • Accepting new patients

    Michael Marcus, DPM

    Podiatrist

    • Santa Fe Springs

Reliable in-office X-ray imaging starts here

With same- or next-day appointments at eight Los Angeles-area offices, you'll never wait weeks or months for answers. Whether you need physical therapy, injections, or surgery, we plan it with you and coordinate each step.

Call or schedule online today to see an orthopedic specialist in Los Angeles.

Find care by body area.

Jump to a nearby condition page and compare treatment paths across the body.

From our Google reviews

What patients say

Read all 9,626 reviews on Google
  • “The staff were very helpful and courteous. Doctor Lee was amazing. He explained everything to me and I had the opportunity to have my x ray as well as my injection there and then without any time wasting or referrals. …”

    Veda P.Google reviewTarzanaFeb 2026

  • “…The office was efficient and the staff all very friendly. After only a few minutes I was led into an exam room, then given X-rays. Dr. Lian was knowledgeable and personable, examining me gently and explaining the issue, and recommendations clearly and kindly. I felt cared for and happily recommend Dr. Lian.”

    Daniel W.Google reviewFeb 2026

  • “The medical professionals were all very friendly and took the time to talk to me about my broken leg. The x ray tech Alex, in particular was so patient and caring walking me from the waiting room to the xray room in tons of pain.”

    The T.Google reviewTarzanaMar 2026

  • “Was my first visit to office. Staff and Dr very nice, willing to sit down and explain tests and x-rays. Very satisfied so far.”

    Sue T.Google reviewSanta Fe SpringsFeb 2026

Selected 5-star reviews from Google, shown as written. Individual results vary.

FAQ.

  • It depends on your symptoms and exam. We start with a focused orthopedic exam and review any imaging you already have, and your specialist explains whether an X-ray is the best next step or whether a different test, such as ultrasound or MRI, makes more sense.

Find out if in-office X-ray imaging is right for you.

Same-day and next-day appointments at eight Los Angeles-area offices. Book a visit and meet your specialist.

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21 specialists · 8 offices
Greater Los Angeles
On-site X-raySame visit
Most insurers acceptedIn-network
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