AP views of the shoulder typically show the following anatomical landmarks and features:
Humerus
The proximal humerus with the head rounded and articulating with the glenoid fossa.
The greater tuberosity and lesser tuberosity are visible as projections on the humerus.
Scapula
The glenoid cavity seen as a shallow socket for articulation.
The scapular spine may be faintly visible, depending on patient positioning.
Clavicle
The lateral end articulating with the acromion process of the scapula.
Acromioclavicular (AC) Joint
Clearly visible as the articulation between the acromion and clavicle.
Soft Tissue
Surrounding muscles and soft tissues visible faintly depending on the imaging.
Positioning
The arm is generally in neutral rotation to clearly view joint alignment.
If the shoulder has tendinitis, an AP view of the shoulder shows certain signs or indirect findings may suggest the presence of tendinitis or related conditions. These include:
Calcific Tendinitis
Calcium deposits within the rotator cuff tendons, particularly the supraspinatus tendon, may appear as dense, white spots on the X-ray.
Subacromial Space Narrowing
A reduced space between the humeral head and the acromion may indicate chronic inflammation or tendon degeneration.
Associated Bony Changes
Signs of chronic tendinitis might include sclerosis or bone spurs at the greater tuberosity of the humerus or the undersurface of the acromion.
Joint Effusion or Soft Tissue Swelling (Rare)
X-rays are poor at showing soft tissues, but significant swelling may alter soft tissue contours.