Diagnostic Imaging and Referral

Diagnostic Imaging
and Referral

Imaging Guidelines for Referral to the Shoulder Assessment
Clinic at the Edmonton Bone and Joint Centre

ULTRASOUND/MR/CT IS NOT REQUIRED PRIOR TO REFERRAL

As general guidance, tertiary imaging such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT should not be ordered in advance of referral. In addition, unless a red flag is identified, an initial course of non-operative treatment is always appropriate.

Red Flags:
- Fracture/Dislocation
- Infection
- Tumour
- Acute traumatic mechanism
  - New injury in a previously unaffected shoulder.
  - Unable to lift 90 degrees in forward elevation.

However, if you are sending your patient for diagnostic imaging, please order the x-ray series below that corresponds with their shoulder issue.

X-ray series should include:

Shoulder Pain (Rotator Cuff Related and Arthritis)

True Glenohumeral AP
Scapular Lateral
Axillary Lateral
Zanca View

Shoulder Stiffness (Arthritis and Frozen Shoulder)

True Glenohumeral AP
Scapular Lateral
Axillary Lateral
Zanca View

Shoulder Instability

True Glenohumeral AP
Scapular Lateral
Stryker Notch
West Point Axillary

Additional Information

If you have determined that surgical treatment is necessary, steps to refer your patient to our clinic can be found here. If you need guidance on how to treat your patient with shoulder pain, please visit one of our pages listed below:

Managing the Patient with Shoulder Pain Conservative Management of Shoulder Pain EBJC Affiliated PT Providers for Shoulder Rehab SURGE and Reading Rehab Protocols

(780) 433-3155

Have a question? Call us now.

Mon -Fri, 8:00am - 4:00pm

We are open for appointments.

(780) 433-3155

Have a question? Call us now.

Mon -Fri, 8:00am - 4:15pm

We are open for appointments.

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About The Edmonton Bone and Joint Centre

The Edmonton Bone and Joint Centre (EBJC) is a private, not-for-profit clinic. We partner with Alberta Health Services and the Alberta Bone and Joint Institute to provide both surgical and non-surgical care for patients with musculoskeletal issues.

Where to find us

Our clinics are located on the second floor of Northgate Centre, above Walmart. Free parking is available. We look forward to seeing you!

Northgate Centre: 9499 137 Ave NW Edmonton Alberta, T5E 5R8

Joint Assessment Centre: Unit 2032
Surgical Assessment Centre: Unit 2068
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Please call (780) 433 – 3155 and dial ‘1’ for detailed directions to either of our clinics.

Imaging Guidelines for Referral to the Shoulder Assessment Clinic at the Edmonton Bone and Joint Centre