What it is (overview)

An XR Hip 2+ views is a diagnostic imaging test that uses a small amount of ionizing radiation to create detailed X-ray pictures of your hip joint from two or more angles. “2+ views” means the radiology team takes multiple images—often including a front (AP) view and one or more side/oblique views—to better see the hip from different perspectives.

This test primarily shows bones and joint alignment, including the top of the thigh bone (femoral head/neck), the hip socket (acetabulum), and the joint space between them. While X-rays do not show soft tissues (like cartilage, tendons, or labrum) as clearly as MRI or ultrasound, they are excellent for detecting:

What results generally mean: A radiologist (a doctor specializing in radiology and medical imaging) reviews the images and sends a report to your clinician. Results may be described as normal (no visible bone or joint abnormality) or may show findings such as a fracture, dislocation, signs of arthritis diagnosis (like joint space narrowing or bone spurs), changes suggesting inflammation, or other bone abnormalities. Your provider will interpret the findings along with your symptoms (such as hip pain), exam, and any other tests to guide treatment.

When & why it's usually done

Clinicians commonly order an XR Hip 2+ views as part of an orthopedic evaluation when there is concern about bone injury, joint damage, or degenerative joint disease. Because it is fast, widely available, and informative for many bone-related problems, it is often the first imaging test for hip symptoms.

This test is usually done when you have:

Hip pain that is new, worsening, or limiting walking, standing, or daily activities—especially if pain is localized to the groin, outer hip, or buttock area.

Injury or trauma (fall, sports injury, car accident), to support fracture assessment or check for a dislocation. This is particularly important for older adults or people with osteoporosis, where fractures can occur even after minor falls.

Stiffness and reduced range of motion, clicking, catching, or pain with movement—symptoms that may suggest joint wear or inflammation.

Suspected arthritis (such as osteoarthritis) when there is chronic pain, morning stiffness, or difficulty with activities like climbing stairs.

Follow-up imaging to monitor healing after a known fracture, to assess alignment after reduction of a dislocation, or to evaluate hardware and bone position after hip surgery (including hip replacement).

Risk factors that increase concern for hip problems, such as older age, known osteoporosis, long-term steroid use, prior hip injury, or conditions that affect joint health.

Because X-rays use radiation, it’s important to tell your care team if you are pregnant or might be pregnant. The imaging team will use appropriate safety measures or consider alternative tests when needed.

Common diseases related to it

• Hip fracture (including femoral neck or intertrochanteric fracture)
• Hip dislocation or subluxation
• Osteoarthritis of the hip (degenerative joint disease)
• Inflammatory arthritis affecting the hip (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis)
• Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) of the femoral head (may be suggested on X-ray; MRI is often more sensitive early)
• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and bony abnormalities (cam/pincer morphology)
• Hip dysplasia and abnormal joint alignment
• Bursitis-related changes (X-ray may be used to rule out bone causes of pain)
• Bone tumors or bone cysts (screening/initial evaluation findings)
• Infection involving bone or joint (osteomyelitis or septic arthritis—X-ray may show later changes; other tests may be needed)

Health goals where it may help

• Identifying the cause of hip pain and guiding an accurate treatment plan
• Supporting safe return to activity after injury through fracture assessment and healing checks
• Monitoring joint health and progression of hip arthritis over time
• Planning orthopedic care (physical therapy, injections, or surgical decisions) based on radiology findings
• Evaluating hip alignment and mobility issues to improve walking and function
• Post-operative follow-up after hip procedures (including checking implant position after hip replacement)
• Reducing risk of complications by detecting fractures or dislocations early, especially in older adults