In medical terms, the word extremities refers to the arms and legs. Doctors refer patients to Florida Hospital for x-rays of the extremities to diagnose broken bones and fractures or to look for evidence of other conditions, such as infections, arthritis, tendonitis, bone spurs or tumors. X-rays of the extremities are also used to evaluate growth development and damage to soft tissues in children and to diagnose and treat other abnormalities of the bones and joints. Risks associated with x-rays of the extremities are the same as for any procedure involving x-rays. They require no special preparation.